Laser Sinus Treatment (SMR)
Quick Surgical Relief for Allergies with Laser Sinus Treatment at Methodist Dallas Medical Center
Methodist Dallas Medical Center offers innovative laser submucosal resection
(SMR) to relieve:
- Chronic congestion
- Drainage
- Sinus infections
- Headaches caused by allergies
Benefits of laser sinus treatment treatment can include:
- Quick procedure
- Less pain
- Effective reduction of chronic allergy symptoms
All SMR procedures are performed by independently practicing physicians on the medical staff at Methodist Health System.
How Laser Sinus Treatment (SMR) Works
The SMR procedure shrinks blood vessels in the turbinates, structures in the nose that expand and contract in response to irritants, humidity, infection, and other factors. When the turbinates are swollen, they narrow the nasal passages, making it more difficult for air to get in or for mucus to get out. This can cause congestion and breathing problems. Shrinking the blood vessels in the turbinates prevents them from swelling up.
During the 15-minute SMR procedure, a fiberoptic wire attached to a laser is passed underneath the lining of the turbinate. Patients generally go home in about an hour, and most recover within two days and start noticing a gradual improvement in congestion at about two weeks that levels out in six to eight weeks.
About 70 percent of people who have the SMR procedure report major improvements with symptoms brought on by allergies including decreased congestion and drainage, fewer headaches, and less need for decongestant and antihistamine medicines.
Is laser sinus treatment right for you?
Patients should be evaluated by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) physician to determine if SMR is an appropriate treatment for them.
For more information, call 214-947-0015 or 1-866-500-1852.