FAQs

Otolaryngologists are physicians trained in and specializing in the medical and surgical treatment of ear, nose throat (ENT) diseases and disorders.

Some of the ear conditions Cross Timbers ENT physicians treat include hearing loss, ear infections, balance disorders, ear noise and nerve pain.

Some nose conditions Cross Timbers ENT physicians treat are sinus disease, allergies, nosebleeds and care of the nasal passageways.

Some of the throat conditions Cross Timbers ENT physicians treat include tonsil and larynx infections and diseases, esophagus problems (such as swallowing disorders and breathing conditions, including snoring and sleep apnea).

Head and neck conditions Cross Timbers ENT physicians diagnose and treat include the nerves that control sight, smell, hearing, and the face. Our otolaryngologists are also trained to treat infectious diseases in the head and neck area, both benign and malignant (cancerous) tumors, facial trauma, and deformities of the face.

Allergies are hypersensitive immune responses to certain substances, which come in contact or enter the body (such as pet dander, pollen or venom).

Sinusitis is inflammation or swelling of the sinus tissue. Normally the sinuses are full of air, but when sinuses become blocked with fluid, germs and bacteria begin to grow, causing infections.

Some of the common symptoms of sinusitis are facial pain, pressure or congestion, difficulty breathing through the nose, discharge of yellow or green mucus, teeth pain, loss of smell or taste, headache, fatigue and a sore throat.

• Acute sinusitis is a sudden onset of symptoms, such as a runny nose and pressure or pain, which lasts for around 4 weeks.

• Subacute sinusitis is when the inflammation lasts approximately 1 to 2 months.

• Chronic sinusitis is when the inflammation lasts 2 months or even longer.

• Recurrent sinusitis happens when a patient experiences several sinus infections over the course of one year.

Our ENT doctors at Cross Timbers ENT use a variety of approaches when treating patients with sinusitis:

Medical Therapy

Sinusitis is typically treated first with medication. Treatment with antibiotics or topical nasal steroid sprays is successful for many sinusitis sufferers. Inhaling steam or use of saline nasal sprays or drops can also help. However, at least 20% of patients do not respond adequately to medications.

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery (with cutting instruments)

Sinus surgery aims to clear blocked sinuses and restore normal sinus drainage. The procedure removes bone and tissue to enlarge the sinus opening. The removal of bone and tissue may lead to pain, scarring, and bleeding.

The Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices are FDA-cleared, endoscopic, catheter-based instruments specifically designed to be used in sinus surgery. The Sinus Balloon Catheter is gradually inflated to gently restructure the previously blocked sinus opening, which restores normal sinus drainage, without damaging the sinus.

Clinical research has indicated that using Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology is safe and effective in dilating sinus openings.

Results vary by individual. Published clinical data has shown the following regarding patients who have had sinus surgery with Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology:

• A study of 1,036 patients at multiple institutions reported that sinus symptoms improved in 96% of patients at an average follow-up period of 10 months.

• Another study followed 65 patients at multiple institutions and reported clinically and statistically significant improvement in patient symptoms up to 2 years.

Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology dilates sinus openings (or ostia) by pushing aside bones that comprise the sinus ostia. Moving bone remodels the sinus ostia, creating wider openings.

The Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology is minimally invasive and has been clinically demonstrated to be safe by leading Ear, Nose and Throat doctors. Unlike other tools used to clear blocked sinus openings, Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology does not remove any bone or tissue, and many patients can quickly return to normal activities.

Our ENT doctors at Cross Timbers ENT can best explain the potential risks of surgery with Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology. In all published clinical data, no serious adverse events attributable to the Balloon Sinuplasty™ System have been reported. Balloon Sinuplasty™ Technology has associated risks, including tissue and mucosal trauma, infection, or possible optic injury. Consult your physician for a full discussion of risks and benefits to determine whether this procedure is right for you.

No. Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices are endoscopic tools used within conventional sinus surgery and may be used with other medical therapies. They do not limit future treatment options for patients.

If you suffer from sinusitis, and if medication alone has not been effective in relieving your symptoms, you may be a candidate for surgery using the Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices. We also encourage you to talk to your ENT doctor about whether the use of these FDA-cleared, endoscopic, catheter-based tools are right for you.

Cross Timbers ENT physicians who have been trained on the Relieva Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices.

Yes. Medicare covers endoscopic sinus surgery when any combination of tools, including a balloon catheter, is used to perform the procedure.

Most insurance companies cover sinus surgery with Balloon Sinuplasty™ devices. To be certain of your coverage, contact your insurance provider to find out your specific coverage policy.

The ear is made up of three sections: the outer ear, middle ear, and inner ear. Each area is susceptible to infections, which can be painful. Young children are particularly prone to earaches. While most ear pain resolves on its own within a few days, it’s important to have a physical examination to identify the type of infection, prevent it from spreading, and receive appropriate treatment to relieve discomfort.

Outer Ear Infection (Otitis Externa)

Also known as Swimmer’s Ear, outer ear infections result from inflammation (often bacterial) of the outer ear. They commonly occur when water, sand, or dirt enters the ear canal. Moisture from swimming or humid environments can make the ear more susceptible. Symptoms may include: severe pain, itching, redness and swelling in the outer ear, and fluid drainage. Pain may worsen when chewing or when the ear is touched. Untreated otitis externa can lead to complications such as hearing loss, recurring infections, or damage to bone and cartilage. Treatment often requires prescription medicated eardrops to inhibit bacterial growth. In more severe cases, oral antibiotics and pain medication may be necessary. Most outer ear infections resolve within 7 to 10 days.

Middle Ear Infection (Otitis Media)

Middle ear infections may be caused by bacterial or viral infections and can be triggered by airborne or food allergies, infections elsewhere in the body, nutritional deficiencies, or a blocked Eustachian tube. Chronic cases may produce thick, glue-like fluid in the middle ear. Depending on the cause, treatment may include analgesic eardrops, medications, or surgical interventions such as ear tube insertion to drain fluid or an adenoidectomy.

Inner Ear Infection (Otitis Interna)

Also called labyrinthitis, inner ear infections are often caused by infections elsewhere in the body, such as sinus, throat, or dental infections. Symptoms may include: dizziness, fever, nausea and vomiting, hearing loss, and tinnitus. Always seek medical attention if you suspect an inner ear infection, as prompt treatment is crucial.

Usually, it’s due to fluid build-up inside the ear. Sound cannot travel through to vibrate the normal way. Removing the fluid usually restores the patient’s hearing.