Review of Surgical Treatments of Sleep Apnea
Unfortunately it is difficult to determine with much certainty which procedure is required from the onset, therefore frequently a serial approach to surgery is taken. These procedures have a relatively low success rate in comparison to other treatment options. They are often highly invasive procedures and can be very expensive. All surgical procedures are invasive, non reversible and carry some degree of risk
- Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
The uvula and portions of the soft palate are removed to widen the airway to help prevent collapse. Since the UPPP only treats the throat walls and has a modest success rate, many surgeons will also perform a procedure to pull the tongue forward at the same time as the UPPP. This includes procedures called Genioglossus Advancement and Hyoid Suspension.
- Laser assisted UPPP (LAUP)
This is a variation of the UPPP that can be done in the office over several visits. The pain of this procedure and the need for up to five treatments has limited this technique's popularity. Over the last few years, a number of new methods of palatal treatment have been created, all of which are invasive.
- Somnoplasty
Radio frequency waves are used to cause contraction of the excessive tissues and open the upper airway. This is similar to a LAUP.
- Maxillo-Mandibular Osteotomy (MMO)
In cases where UPPP and combined procedures have failed, more aggressive surgical approaches have been used. Maxillo-mandibular Advancement Surgery requires cutting the upper and lower jawbones free from their attachments to the skull, pulling them forward and reattaching them in place with metal plates and screws. The teeth remain in good alignment and the net effect is to pull the tongue and its related structures forward, increasing the room in the back of the throat.
Comparison of SomnoDent MAS™ with Surgical Treatments
MAS treatment is painless and non invasive. In addition, therapy is completely reversible and can be used in conjunction with other treatments. If complications arise, the patient simply stops wearing the device.
Most people find that it only takes a couple of weeks to adjust to wearing the appliances. Because these devices are so small they could fit in the palm of your hand, they are convenient and easy to carry when traveling
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