Air passage blockage causing problems in snoring and sleep apnea occurs usually not only in a single area but also simultaneously in different anatomical regions, at different degrees.
In this disease group, for which different treatment approaches are preferred depending on the area of blockage in the air passage and the characteristics of blockage process.
Generally surgical treatment of snoring is patient’s preference as this situation is a social problem and doesn’t affect patient’s health. Minimally invasive interventions like radiofrequency reduction of the soft palate or tongue base and intra palatal implants (Pillar procedure) are preferred in patients with snoring complaint.
In obstructive apnea patients most of the times first treatment option is continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) masks and surgical treatment procedures come into question if the patient could not use or benefit from other treatment modalities, particular from CPAP mask and;
- AHI (apnea-hypopnea index) is above 20;
- Blood oxygen saturation is below 90%;
- The state of sleep affects daily life throughout the day.
- A significant cardiac rhythm disorder associated with sleep apnea develops;
- Significant anatomical problems likely to cause diseases, which can be surgically treated, are detected.
- There is no medical problem that may pose an obstacle to surgery.
Surgical procedures that can be carried out in different anatomical areas, depending on the location and content of the obstruction of the respiratory tract of patients with snoring and sleep apnea are classified under the following titles.
- Nasal surgeries (surgical interventions intended for nasal obstruction)
- Surgical interventions intended for the soft palate
- Surgical interventions intended for the tongue base
- Surgical interventions for advancing the upper and lower jaw bones (Maxillomandibular advancement)
- Stimulation of the nerves of the tongue muscles (hypoglossal nerve stimulation)
- Creating an opening through the neck into the windpipe (tracheotomy)
