What we do

On site Patient Services

• Toshiba helical CT scanner with enhanced computer imaging
• State-of-the-art 3-D Visualization Technology Insta Trak System
• Fiber-optic Endoscopy
• Fully staffed professional surgery center
• Health insurance specialist to assist you
• Same day appointments often available
• 24-hour patient care phone line

The Sinus Center - Idaho Specializes in respiratory, nasal and sinus problems. Each patient is personally diagnosed, given treatment and follow-up by highly experienced staff, all in one location.
For sinus sufferers requiring surgery, endoscopic technology minimizes discomfort, speeds recovery and is offered as an outpatient procedure. Sinus - Center - Idaho features on site CT scanners, Visualization Technology InstaTrak System (VTI), and a professional surgical staff.

VTI Procedure

A VTI (Visualization Technology, Inc.) scan fuses a CT scan image with a guidance device. Utilizing computer technology and specialized software, an electromagnetic tracking system provides pinpoint visual accuracy throughout the surgical procedure. Sinus structures are clearly seen through this technology, along with the areas surrounding the eye and brain. A headset is worn during the scan and surgery that aligns your CT images with your anatomy to help your surgeon perform accurate procedures.

Sinus Center-Idaho uses a state-of-the-art 3-D system called Visualization Technology Insta Trak (VTI). This advanced medical system universally photographs your sinus area to create a precises replica. The images are referenced prior to and during surgery to ensure a safer, more exact procedure. These procedures are minimally invasive, resulting in rapid recovery and elimination of nasal packing.

CT Scan

Computerized Tomography (CT) scan x-rays give clear, detailed cross-sectional views of the sinuses. It is the preferred method of assessing structural changes that alter the natural passages of the sinuses and help determine the best form of treatment.

Click here to learn more about a CT Scan Visit and about how we develop a treatment plan.

Endoscopic Sinus Exam

This procedure allows the doctor to see the entire nasal structure and takes 5-10 minutes. It may be used if there is a question on the diagnosis of sinusitis, if medical treatment has failed to resolve the problem, or surgery is being considered. In surgery, it pinpoints the exact location where treatment will be performed.

Medications

Are the first course of action and are used when symptoms are severe or don't improve after home treatment. Their goal is to treat infection and relieve pressure and pain. The mucous membranes usually take weeks and sometimes months to fully heal after an infection and it is not uncommon for secondary infections to occur.Types of medications used are....

1. Antibiotics – that kill bacteria. Antibiotics are successful in 90% of short-term
acute sinusitis caused by bacteria infection. A 10-14 day treatment is usually prescribed. A longer course is needed for long term chronic sinus sufferers.
2. Decongestants/Antihistamines – that reduce swelling of the mucous membranes. This will improve air flow and mucus flow of the nose and sinus.
3. Analgesics – relieve pain.
4. Corticosteroids – to reduce inflammation in the nasal passages.
5. Mucolytics – to thin the mucus.

Click here to learn about when or how medicines fail.

Surgery

Is used only when medications alone do not relieve sinus problems. The goal of surgery is to improve sinus drainage by removing blockages that may include infected, swollen or damaged tissues; or alter bone to create a wider opening for mucus drainage; and removal of polyps (growths) inside the nose or sinuses. Surgery may be the only way of relieving infected and severly blocked drainage passages.

Click here to learn about sinus surgery's latest technology for chronic sinusitis sufferers.