Revolutionary, Minimally Invasive Treatment Provides Long-lasting Chronic Sinusi...( Saint Joseph Hospital Among the First...),Health

Saint Joseph Hospital Among the First to Offer New Surgical Treatment Approach

CHICAGO, March 18 /PRNewswire/ -- After three years of suffering from congestion and several months of trying a steroid nasal spray, Chicago resident Matt Minella, 31, opted for a surgical procedure to help him breathe better through his nose.

Within days of the procedure, Minella was back to work and running again thanks to a new endoscopic balloon device called the Relieva Stratus(TM) Microflow Spacer. The device is the first endoscopic instrument to release medication directly into the sinuses over a two- to three-week period.

Saint Joseph Hospital is offering this new treatment approach for patients who suffer from chronic sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinus lining caused by bacterial, viral and/or microbial infections, as well as structural issues like sinus opening blockages. If the sinus opening is closed, normal mucus drainage may not occur, leading to infection and inflammation of the sinuses.

"I am not only breathing better, but sleeping and talking better," said Minella, a marathon runner and exercise enthusiast. "The treatment is a no-brainer for anyone living with sinus problems."

The outpatient procedure involves using flexible, thin balloon catheters to enlarge sinus openings. The doctor places the device in one or both nostrils, which inflates inside the sinus. Medication slowly releases from the balloon's micro-pores, bathing the sinus lining, decreasing inflammation and opening nasal passages to drain excess fluid. The device is removed 14 to 21 days after surgery.

"Following surgery, the medication continues to treat symptoms of sinusitis without the patients even feeling the implanted device - helping them to recover sooner," said