Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 27, 2025
06:13
Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation
Published on: June 20, 2018
17.6K
National Geographical Variation in Sinus Balloon Dilation
Shekhar K Gadkaree1, Vinay K Rathi1, Allen L Feng1
1Department of Otolaryngology, Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Summary
Sinus balloon dilation (SBD) use varies nationally, with higher rates in Southern states. Higher reimbursement for SBD compared to endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) did not directly correlate with increased SBD procedures.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Health Services Research
- Medical Economics
Background:
- Sinus balloon dilation (SBD) is an alternative to traditional endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS).
- Understanding national and regional variations in SBD utilization is crucial for healthcare planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe national variations in SBD procedures.
- To examine the relationship between ESS and SBD prevalence.
- To evaluate associations between reimbursement rates and regional SBD variations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective observational study using Medicare Provider Utilization and Payment (PUP) Part B data (2016).
- States were stratified into average- or high-volume SBD and ESS utilizers.
- Comparison of procedure volumes, otolaryngologist density, and reimbursement rates.
Main Results:
- Eight states were high-volume SBD utilizers; only three were high-volume ESS utilizers.
- SBD reimbursement was significantly higher than ESS reimbursement ($1538 vs $335).
- High-volume SBD states had more otolaryngologists and a trend toward increased ESS procedures per capita.
Conclusions:
- The Southern US exhibits higher SBD procedure rates.
- Statewide variations in SBD reimbursement did not appear to directly drive SBD procedure rates.
- Regional differences in SBD utilization warrant further investigation.
