Chronic sinus congestion can have a negative impact on all areas of your life, which is why our team at Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat are committed to providing top-notch treatments to help you breathe easy.
One effective treatment that can be considered is the placement of a Propel or Sinuva Implant in the sinus cavity.
Propel and Sinuva: Steroid Implants
Patients suffering from nasal polyps often require sinus surgery to remove excess tissue. The problem is that these polyps can return over time. To minimize the risk or recurrence or prolong the time until this might occur, steroid implants may be warranted.
These devices are designed to deliver small doses of steroids in the nasal passageways. These small, resorbable devices deliver corticosteroids directly to the sinus lining, without clinically significant uptake to the rest of the body. The medications reduce the severity of nasal polyps, which is important to keep the sinuses open and clear. As a result, using a steroid implant can minimize the need for additional treatments in the future.
Propel was the first device designed, with several versions available depending on the placement location in the sinus area. Sinuva is a longer lasting product, specifically created for patients suffering from recurring nasal polyps.
Benefits of Steroid Implants
These devices offer great results and a variety of benefits:
- Clinically proven to keep the sinuses open after surgery
- Delivers anti-inflammatory medication into the affected area
- Decreases postoperative inflammation and scarring
- Minimizes the need for oral steroids, which decreases medication side-effects
- Reduces future surgical procedures
- Lightweight implant – because it is not visible and does not obstruct the nasal cavity, the majority of patients do not even know it is there
ENT Placement of Steroid Implants
Originally, these medical devices were designed to be placed during sinus surgery. As these implants have become more widely used, the implants can be placed during regular office visits or procedures. When the ethmoid cavity was previously opened using surgical techniques, the ENT can suggest the implant at a later appointment based on the recovery of the patient after surgery.
The Propel implant dissolves over time, so there is no need for removal. On the other hand, Sinuva gradually releases corticosteroid for 90 days before it is removed at the physician’s discretion.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Steroid-Releasing Implant?
These implant devices are only used for adults age 18+ who have had ethmoid sinus surgery. Certain conditions indicate that you might not be a good candidate, such as trauma or ulcers in the nasal passages.
Multiple steroid implant devices are available, which is why it is important to consult with our experienced team to determine the right treatment for your needs.
If you are looking for solutions to reduce your sinus discomfort, then our team is here to help. Visit Collin County Ear, Nose, and Throat in Frisco or Plano, TX. Use our online form to request an appointment. Or call if you would like to speak to our caring staff: (972) 596-4005.