Nasal and Sinus Disorder Services

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery and Nasal Reconstruction

Endoscopic sinus surgery is a safe, outpatient procedure that has been shown to be effective in alleviating or eliminating chronic sinus pain and/or infection. Allergy therapy is also a key element, either by itself, or in combination with surgery to comprehensively manage symptoms. Some patients are not sure if they are ready for surgery; these patients will often try allergy therapy first. The goal is to improve or eliminate the conditions creating chronic infection and inflammation of the nose and sinus cavities.

Obstructed nasal breathing can be very uncomfortable and may cause health problems. Although frequently present with sinusitis or allergy, difficulty breathing through the nose can result from a physical blockage. For example, a deviated nasal septum is twisting of the internal nose. External nasal fractures can have the same effect. A blocked nose can cause mouth breathing, headache and constant dry mouth. It can also interfere with physical activity and sleep. This includes snoring and sleep apnea, which is a dangerous health condition. Fortunately, obstruction of the nasal cavity can often be reliably treated with safe outpatient surgery. Proper nasal breathing is essential for comfort, restorative sleep and general health.

Sinus disease can exhibit any number of symptoms, including sinus headache, congestion, coughing, chronic sore throat, eye pain and bad breath. The condition of the nose and sinuses can also have secondary effects of other body systems; specifically the ears, throat and lungs.

The health and function of the ear depends upon the eustacian tube; if it is unhealthy, chronic ear infections, hearing loss, a sensation of pressure, pain or even balance disorders may result.

Post nasal drip can have negative effects on lung function, throat health and asthma. Hoarseness, chronic sore throat, shortness of breath, cough, exacerbation of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can be the result of the irritation from post nasal drip. More complex mechanisms involving inflammation can also be involved that may be detected during a thorough consultation and examination with Dr. Martini.

Another step forward for Sinus Surgery

You’ve probably heard of Global Positioning System (GPS), a computer program that can give you directions while you are driving. A similar type of navigational system is now being utilized by Dr. Martini. The system is called “Stereotactic Sinus Surgery”. It’s particularly useful for patients who have had previous sinus surgery or extensive damage from disease. Stereotactic Sinus Surgery takes a CT scan and transfers it into a 3 Dimensional image creating another level of safety and efficiency. This enables a surgeon to view areas of a patient’s anatomy in greater detail, as well as visualize the exact position of surgical instruments during the procedure.

For the 35 million people who suffer from chronic sinusitis, this technology offers new hope and lasting relief. We are pleased to offer this new technology and higher level of safety to our patients.

Some patients may or may not require surgical services. These patients may benefit only from medical therapy, allergy testing and treatment. All of the above modalities can be seamlessly administered at this office. The consultation process is the key component in helping our patients establish their treatment goals. Dr. Martini will review your symptoms, perform a thorough physical examination, evaluate your (CT) scan as well as all previous tests and treatments performed.