There are a
few types of surgical procedures available that help to improve snoring
condition. Usually, insurance companies classify these surgeries as elective
and cosmetic so chances are it will be costly. After consulting an
otolaryngologist (ear, nose and throat specialist) which might suggest a
battery of tests and possibly a sleep study, he might recommend one of these
surgical procedures:
Uvulopalatoharyngoplasty (UPPP)
excess tissues are surgically removed from
the back of the throat. The tissues removed often include excess uvula tissue,
tonsils, adenoids and pharynx tissue. UPPP is effective in reducing snoring as
it widens the patient's airways but in the long term it only cures between
46%-73% of cases. Full recovery lasts about three months during this period of
time swallowing is extremely difficult.
Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP)
This procedure is a modification of the UPPP
procedure. In LAUP, the surgeon uses laser to remove the excess tissues
mentioned in a series of 2-5 procedures lasting about 30 minutes each. This
type of procedure is recommended only for those who suffer a disruptive and
loud snoring condition.
Nasal surgery
People who suffer from a deviated septum
resulting in a significant nose blockage have the option of correcting it by
undergoing nasal surgery.
Genioglossus and hyoid advancement
This procedure prevents the collapsing of the
lower throat by pulling the tongue muscles forward. a procedure which is
usually performed on patients who suffer from OSA (Obstructive Sleep Apnea).
Tongue suspension
This procedure helps in treating snoring by
keeping the patient's tongue from falling down his throat during sleep. A screw
is inserted into the lower jawbone and is attached to the tongue from below.
This procedure is reversible.
Radio Frequency Tissue Ablation (RFTA)
A relatively new technique, RFTA (also known
as Somnoplasty) uses an electrode in a form of a needle. Energy is emitted in
order to cause excess tissue to shrink. The tissue then gets reabsorbed
naturally back into the body. Like the LAUP procedure, RFTA also requires a
series of sessions and local anesthesia is used.
Coblation channeling
An even newer procedure, Coblation channeling
both shrinks and removes excess tissue.
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