When Is a PROPEL Sinus Implant Recommended?

When you have chronic sinus problems, it can interrupt your everyday life. A PROPEL sinus implant can make it possible for you to breathe easily without suffering from nasal congestion and other signs of sinus trouble. Find out more about what this implant and when your doctor might recommend it as a form of treatment.

What Are PROPEL Sinus Implants?

This implant is a device that is placed inside your nasal cavity in order to keep your sinuses open while they are healing from functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS). This type of surgery involves making your sinus passages wider - allowing mucus to drain thoroughly. This device acts as a spring that helps widen the sinus passages during the healing process. It releases cortisone in small doses, which helps prevent polyps from growing and scars from forming. The PROPEL sinus implant is a temporary and dissolves on within four weeks.

Sinus Symptoms and Problems

PROPEL sinus implants are not recommended for an occasional case of acute sinusitis; it is designed for those who deal with chronic or frequent sinus problems. You may be a potential candidate for this implant if you have one or more of the following:

• Chronic sinusitis for three months or longer, especially if it does not improve with other forms of treatment
• Acute sinusitis that occurs four or more times per year
• Previous sinus surgery that was unsuccessful
• Nasal polyps that block your sinuses

If you have chronic sinusitis, you might experience one or more of the following symptoms:

• Nasal congestion
• Trouble breathing
• Nasal discharge with discoloration rather than clear nasal discharge
• Pain or a feeling of pressure around your sinuses
• Headaches
• Decreased sense of taste/smell

Your doctor can evaluate your symptoms and let you know if PROPEL sinus implants are a suitable option for you.

What to Expect

When you undergo FESS surgery and have a PROPEL sinus implant, afterwards, you will be given either general or local anesthesia. FESS surgery involves the use of a small tube and camera, which are placed through your nostril. Your surgeon uses this to identify abnormal tissue that is blocking your sinuses. Once this is found, your surgeon uses tiny surgical tools to remove this tissue or reposition if needed.

After FESS surgery, your surgeon inserts the PROPEL sinus implant in the surgical area. While you won’t feel any discomfort during surgery and implant placement, you might have some soreness and swelling afterwards. Your nose might also feel stuffy for about one week after the procedure. You should be allowed to go back to your usual activities within a week. As you heal, you will need to use nasal saline to maintain enough moisture for the implant to work.

If you need more information on PROPEL sinus implants, please contact Lakeside Allergy ENT to make an appointment, to help determine if you are a suitable candidate for this treatment.