What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing continuously stops and starts. The three types are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome (CompSAS).
The most prevalent type of OSA happens when the throat muscles relax and restrict the airway. CSA occurs when the brain fails to communicate with the respiratory muscles properly, CSA takes place. CompSAS is a combination of OSA and CSA.
These breathing pauses can happen frequently throughout the night and last between a few seconds and several minutes. As a result, they can cause disruptions in sleep patterns and lower the amount of oxygen delivered to the body.
The most common symptoms include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
Obesity, aging, and certain medical conditions are all common causes of sleep apnea.
Treatment options may include:
- Lifestyle modifications such as losing weight and avoiding alcohol
- Positional treatment
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines
- Oral appliances
- Surgery (In severe cases)
Proper diagnosis and management are critical for improving sleep quality and avoiding potential consequences.
What Surgical Procedures Are Available to Treat Sleep Apnea?
There are various types of surgery for treating sleep apnea. In addition to improving airflow while you sleep, these operations try to treat the disorder’s underlying causes.
Here are a few of the most frequently performed surgical procedures:
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
The UPPP procedure involves the removal of extra tissue from the throat, including the tonsils, uvula, and parts of the soft palate. By widening the airway, UPPP can lessen the likelihood of blockages occurring while you’re sleeping.
Tonsillectomy
This procedure involves the removal of the tonsils, which can frequently impede the airway in children and some adults.
Adenoidectomy
Adenoids are small tissues positioned at the back of the nasal cavity. Removing them can improve airflow and reduce symptoms, especially in children.
Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA)
This procedure involves moving the lower and upper jaws forward. In some cases, MMA can effectively treat it by increasing the space in the airway.
Nasal Surgery
Treating nasal abnormalities, such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps, can enhance nasal breathing and lessen symptoms.
Palatal Implants
This minimally invasive procedure entails inserting small polyester rods into the soft palate. The implants stiffen the palate, limiting its potential to collapse and restrict the airway during sleep.
Genioglossus Advancement (GA)
GA is a surgical technique that realigns and tightens the tongue muscles to prevent the tongue from obstructing the airway while you sleep.
Hyoid Suspension
We can widen the airway passage by repositioning and suspending the hyoid bone in the neck. This operation is usually part of a more extensive combination of surgical treatments.
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy may be an option if previous treatments are ineffective for treating severe sleep apnea. In order to avoid further obstruction of the upper airway, this operation includes making a permanent incision in the patient’s neck and inserting a breathing tube through it.
It is crucial to note that surgery is usually reserved for patients where alternative therapies, such as lifestyle changes or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), have failed. Surgical options for treating it vary depending on the severity of the problem and the underlying anatomic causes.
Before considering surgery, a thorough assessment and consultation with an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat surgeon) and a sleep expert are essential. They will evaluate the patient’s condition and choose the best surgical strategy while considering the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Surgery can give long-term relief for some people with sleep apnea. Still, it is critical to assess the potential benefits against the risks and consider the individual’s overall health and preferences. Call us at ORIS Dental Clinics if you live in Richmond Hill, Ontario and need assistance immediately!
