Patent ID: 9055965
Filing Date: 2015-06-16
Classification: A61B,A61M

Abstract:
1. A method of performing a surgery on a paranasal sinus of a human or animal subject, said method comprising the steps of: a) inserting at least one endoscope; b) inserting at least one rigid tool capable of performing a maneuver within the field of view of the endoscope; c) inserting a balloon catheter that has at least one flexible region capable of performing a maneuver outside the field of view of the endoscope, the balloon catheter comprising a catheter shaft, a non-compliant balloon mounted on the catheter shaft, said balloon being positionable within the opening of the paranasal sinus while in a non-inflated state and thereafter inflatable to an inflated state having a diameter of at least about 3 mm such that it will cause dilation of the opening of the paranasal sinus, said balloon having an outer surface comprising a polymeric material and at least one position indicating element useable to determine when the balloon is positioned within the opening of the paranasal sinus so as to cause the desired dilation; d) using the rigid tool to perform a maneuver within the field of view of the endoscope; and e) using the at least one tubular device to perform a maneuver outside the field of view of the endoscope.