Stents to cure chronic sinusitis

Stents to cure chronic sinusitis

Involves Insertion Of Small Wire Coated With Steroid Into The Cavity

New Delhi: For years, they have been used to open blocked arteries. In a novel approach, drug-eluting stents are now being used to cure chronic sinusitis which is not treatable with medicines. The technique with is also advisable for diabetics and those suffering from hypertension.

The producer, which involves insertion of a small tube-shaped wire coated with steroid solution into the sinus cavity, was recently conducted at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital. The patient – an orthopeadic surgeon at the hospital – is doing fine, claimed Dr Shalabh Sharma, the ENT surgeon.

“In the case of angioplasty, the stent remains inside the body. But here, we put the stent in the nasal passage – there is formation of grape- like swelling – and it is removed after four weeks. The main aim is to administrator low doses of steroids in the affected area and save the patient from the side-effects caused by a large quantity of steroids,” said Dr Sharma. He added that the stent can be inserted under local anesthesia, making it safe even for the elderly or those unfit for general anesthesia. “I was recently diagnosed with early stage sinusitis. Doctors prescribed high doses of steroids but I wasn't willing to go in for the treatment because of the numerous side-effects. So, when the ENT specialist suggested the stent option, I was more than happy to go for it,” said the 40-years –old patient.

“Sinusitis is caused by inflammation of the mucous membrane located in the face and nose region. It puts pressure on one eyes, nose and on one side of the head, resulting in a headache. The common causes of the disease include bacterial or viral infection, cold, allergies, airborne fungus, nasal or sinus obstruction, and respiratory tract infections,” said a senior doctor.

According to a recent report by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAD), one in eight Indians suffers from chronic sinusitis. “In most patients, the symptoms are controlled with oral medications and nasal spray. In about 15% cases, steroids do not work for various reasons and patient need to undergo surgical removal of the polyps. Drug eluting stents are less painful and more effective compared to surgery”, said Sharma.

However, the cost of surgery is a little steep. The stent itself comes for Rs 80,000 and the surgery costs about Rs 20,000.              

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TIMES OF INDIA 12-AUGUST-2012