OTO: Balloon Catheter Dilation of the Sinuses: A 2011-2014 MarketScan Analysis

This podcast highlights original research published in the December 2018 issue of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, the official journal of the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS) Foundation. This retrospective study uses a large national claims-based database to analyze recent practice patterns related to balloon catheter dilation (BCD) of the sinuses. In conclusion, BCD, especially in the office, has risen in popularity since the introduction of Current Procedural Terminologycodes in 2011. This study reveals significant differences in demographics and comorbidities between patients undergoing BCD and those undergoing FESS. Such disparities may highlight the need for better-defined indications for use of this technology.   Click here to read the full article.