Chronic sinusitis is the most common chronic illness in the U.S. It affects over 37 million Americans and causes each of them to miss, on average, four days of work each year. SinuCare(R), the leading healthcare service organization focusing exclusively on treating sinusitis, hosted 50 of our country's most noted Otolaryngologists, in Las Vegas for Sinus Summit IV.

"Chronic sinusitis is a serious health problem in America," said Kevin Powers, President and CEO for SinuCare(R). "Even though it is the most common chronic illness in the U.S., there is still a lack of clarity on suitable application for IV therapy and when treatment should begin. The goal of this summit was to define appropriate patient profiles and discuss treatment protocols."

SinuCare(R)'s Medical Advisory Board developed and discussed an IV antibiotic protocol to help physicians treat patients with chronic sinusitis. Patients who can benefit from IV therapy include those who have:

* Not responded to traditional oral antibiotics including decongestants and steroids.

* Unsuccessful surgery with ongoing sinus infection.

* Other illnesses an ongoing infection could worsen - such as diabetes, lung conditions, kidney disease, or a compromised immune system.

* Refused surgical treatment, yet have persistent and severe sinus infections.

* An advanced form of sinusitis where the infection has entered the bone and the cavity within the bone.

* An adverse reaction to, or can't tolerate oral antibiotics

"IV therapy frequently provides positive outcomes for the chronic sinusitis sufferer," said Howard Levine, M.D., a pioneer in the development of advanced nasal endoscopic diagnostic techniques, and Director of the Cleveland Nasal-Sinus and Sleep Center. "Aggressive treatment is sometimes necessary as severe complications can arise if the sinus infection spreads to other areas; complications including eye problems, meningitis, or even a brain abscess."

There are three protocols to follow when administering IV antibiotic therapy:

1. Non-Surgical. When patients choose not to have surgery or have had an unsuccessful surgery with persistent infection.
2. Pre/Post Operation. The patient receives IV therapy two weeks before surgery and 4-6 weeks afterwards.
3. Post Operation. IV therapy can help promote healing and treat infection in mucus membranes and the bone.

Individuals who would like more information on chronic sinusitis and its treatment can visit www.SinuCare.com.