Randomized Controlled Trial Examining the Effects of Balloon Catheter Dilation on “Sinus Pressure” / Barometric Headaches:

ObjectiveTo determine if balloon catheter dilation of sinus ostia affects the severity or frequency of headache among patients who have barometric pressure–related “sinus” headache.Study DesignProspective single-blinded randomized controlled trial.SettingTertiary care medical center.Subjects and MethodsSubjects with a diagnosis of sinus pressure headache without evidence of mucosal thickening on computed tomography were recruited. Subjects were blinded and randomized to undergo balloon dilation of affected sinus ostia (active treatment) or balloon dilation in the nasal cavity (placebo). Two balloon devices were utilized (Acclarent and Entellus) and outcomes compared. Subjects were followed with pre- and postprocedure SNOT-22 scores (Sinonasal Outcome Test–22), HIT-6 scores (Headache Impact Test–6), and medication utilization logs for 6 months.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference in SNOT-22 or HIT-6 scores between the arms at any time point. However, both arms experienced statistically ...