Pillar Procedure Alternatives
Non-Invasive Solutions for Snoring and Sleep Apnea
If you are one of the 18 million Americans looking for the best solution to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, keep reading. CPAPs did not work. Losing weight did not work. You're exhausted and concerned about long term risks.
Your next move was to try the pillar implant procedure, but now you're stuck. As of right now, the pillar procedure is unavailable because the inserts used in the procedure are not currently being manufactured.
But there's good news! New procedures work just as well (or better), with even less discomfort and less downtime. Let's explore your alternatives and figure out which solution will work for you.
Comparison of Treatments for OSA and Snoring
Oral Appliances for Snoring and Sleep Apneaexpand_more
Maybe you've heard from your dentist that an oral appliance such as the mandibular advancement device (MAD) or tongue retaining device are a smart investment for your sleep. Both of these oral devices work by targeting the placement of your tongue. This sounds great in theory, but only 10-15% of all snoring cases are linked to tongue placement. The only way to know if you have a tongue obstruction is to meet with an ENT doctor and receive a diagnosis.
FDA Approved Snoring and OSA Implantsexpand_more
In recent years, new obstructive sleep apnea implants have been approved by the FDA. The Inspire OSA implant device — FDA approved since 2014 — has two leads. One senses your breathing in the intercostal muscle area. The other stimulates the hypoglossal nerve that controls key airway muscles to open your throat. Patients can turn on the implant using a remote control before bed. The THN device and the Nyxoah Genio system are also in trials or working toward FDA approval.
Minimally Invasive Surgery Proceduresexpand_more
Like the pillar procedure, Elevoplasty and Radiofrequency (RF) treatments both stop airway obstruction caused by the soft palate. Elevoplasty lifts the palate; RF stiffens the palate, and they both offer treatment without implants or inserts. Elevoplasty can be performed in one office visit in about 10 minutes. Radiofrequency can be performed under local anesthesia in less than 20 minutes.
Which non-invasive treatment is best?
Not sure which of these alternatives to pillar and CPAP will prevent your soft palate from interfering with sleep? There's no way to know until you learn what's causing your snoring and/or sleep apnea.
Since the causes of snoring and sleep apnea are individual to each patient, Dr. Kayem will recommend procedures custom to your needs.
After a sleep study and diagnosis with Dr. Kayem, you'll know the reason behind your snoring, and learn which minimally invasive procedure will best provide results.