Although most people have experienced a sinus infection at some point, surgery may become necessary if the infection becomes chronic or recurring, or if the patient has developed nasal polyps. Before the InstaTrak® 3000 System for image guided surgery became available, surgeons mainly relied on their knowledge of human anatomy to clean out polyps and infections. However, anatomy of the sinuses can vary slightly from person to person.

"The image guided system creates a visual roadmap inside the sinus cavity," explained Wayne Williams, M.D., an Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist affiliated with Danville Regional Medical Center. It enhances sinus surgery by helping surgeons avoid penetrating unnecessary bone. Because the sinuses are near sensitive areas, such as the brain and the eyes, avoiding complications is especially important."

The image guided system uses two technologies. A CAT scan creates three-dimensional pictures from different angles, and a radio-frequency tip that attaches to operating instruments allow the surgeon to see exactly where the instrument is located within the patient's sinuses. During the operation, the surgeon can view the exact location of the instrument on a monitor.