Sinus issues can significantly impact your quality of life, leading to chronic pain, congestion, and difficulty breathing. When traditional treatments like medication or minimally invasive procedures don’t bring relief, advanced surgical options such as image-guided sinus surgery can provide a solution.
Image-guided sinus surgery uses real-time 3D imaging technology — similar to GPS navigation — that allows surgeons to precisely track their instruments in relation to the patient’s anatomy during the procedure, making the surgery safer and more accurate. This state-of-the-art approach, under the direction of Dr. Michael Kaplan, enhances the precision and safety of sinus surgery, helping patients experience lasting relief from chronic sinus problems.
At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we’re dedicated to offering the latest advancements in sinus treatment tailored to your specific needs. Schedule an appointment with us today!
What is image-guided sinus surgery?
Image-guided sinus surgery is a technologically advanced method of performing sinus operations designed to improve surgical precision and outcomes. This approach uses real-time imaging to guide the surgeon, allowing for a highly detailed view of your sinus anatomy during the procedure.
Chronic sinusitis, nasal polyps, and other sinus issues can be challenging to treat due to the complexity of the sinus cavities and their proximity to critical structures like the eyes and brain. Image-guided sinus surgery significantly reduces risks by giving the surgeon unparalleled accuracy in navigating these delicate areas.
How does image-guided surgery work?
Image-guided sinus surgery employs advanced navigation systems similar to GPS technology. Before the procedure, a detailed CT scan of the patient’s sinuses is taken and loaded into the system. During surgery, instruments equipped with sensors communicate with the navigation system to provide real-time, three-dimensional images of the surgical site.
This technology allows the surgeon to:
- Identify and avoid critical structures, such as the optic nerve and brain tissue.
- Precisely target problem areas, removing obstructions and restoring proper sinus drainage.
- Minimize damage to healthy tissue, reducing post-operative discomfort and recovery time.
The result is a safer, more effective surgical experience that offers improved outcomes for patients suffering from chronic or complex sinus issues.
Image-guided sinus surgery FAQ
Understanding what to expect from sinus surgery is crucial to feeling confident and prepared. Below are some common questions patients ask about image-guided sinus surgery.
Yes, endoscopic sinus surgery, including image-guided procedures, is typically performed under general anesthesia. This means you will be completely asleep and unaware during the surgery. General anesthesia ensures you remain comfortable and still, allowing the surgeon to operate with optimal precision.
In some cases, local anesthesia may be used for less complex procedures, but this will depend on your individual needs and the surgeon’s recommendation.
Most patients report minimal pain following endoscopic sinus surgery. Thanks to the minimally invasive nature of the procedure and the precision of image-guided techniques, post-operative discomfort is generally mild and manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Some patients may experience temporary nasal congestion or pressure as their sinuses heal, but these symptoms typically improve within a few days. Your surgeon will provide specific post-operative care instructions to help manage any discomfort and promote healing.
Recovery times can vary depending on the complexity of the surgery and individual factors, but most patients can return to their normal activities within 1 – 2 weeks. During the first few days post-surgery, you may experience some nasal drainage or mild swelling.
It’s important to avoid strenuous activities and follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing. Full recovery and restoration of sinus function can take several weeks, but many patients notice significant improvements in their symptoms within days of the procedure.
Other technology services at Kaplan Sinus Relief
Kaplan Sinus Relief is committed to staying at the forefront of innovation, offering a range of advanced technological services to enhance diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes. These services, including in-office CT scans, augmented reality for balloon sinuplasty, and in-office TGS navigation, exemplify our dedication to providing precise and effective care for sinus conditions.
Augmented reality (AR) for balloon sinuplasty
Kaplan Sinus Relief leverages cutting-edge augmented reality (AR) technology to enhance the precision and efficacy of balloon sinuplasty. With AR, surgeons can visualize the anatomy of the sinus passages in real-time during the procedure, ensuring precise placement of the balloon catheter.
This innovative approach minimizes risks and maximizes outcomes, as it enables the surgeon to navigate complex sinus structures with unparalleled accuracy. Patients benefit from shorter recovery times, reduced discomfort, and long-lasting relief from sinus symptoms.
In-office CT scans
Our in-office CT scan service allows patients to receive detailed imaging of their sinus cavities conveniently and efficiently. This advanced diagnostic tool produces high-resolution, three-dimensional images that help identify structural abnormalities, blockages, or infections. Unlike traditional imaging centers, our in-office CT scanner eliminates the need for additional appointments.
The detailed scans serve as a critical foundation for creating personalized treatment plans, whether it’s for medication management, minimally invasive procedures, or surgical intervention.
In-office TGS navigation
In-office TGS (Target Guided Surgery) navigation systems represent the pinnacle of precision in sinus surgery. This state-of-the-art technology uses detailed imaging and computer-assisted navigation to guide surgical instruments during procedures. TGS navigation systems map the sinus anatomy in real-time, helping the surgeon avoid critical structures like the optic nerve and brain tissue.
By integrating this advanced technology into our office setting, we make high-precision sinus surgery accessible and convenient for our patients. The result is safer, more effective procedures with faster recovery times.
Get precision sinus treatment with Kaplan Sinus Relief
If you’ve been struggling with chronic sinus issues and are considering surgical options, image-guided sinus surgery could be the solution you need. At Kaplan Sinus Relief, we combine advanced technology with personalized care to deliver effective and safe treatments for a wide range of sinus conditions.
Hear from some of our satisfied patients!