Pillar procedure is an attractive options in management of snoring and treatment of mild obstructive sleep apnea.  The pillar procedure is an office based procedure performed under local anesthesia without the need for sedation or general anesthesia.  It involves implantation of several "pillars" which are small fibers made of Dacron measuring 1.5mm in diameter and just under an inch in length.   Dacron has been used for years as a suture and graft material for heart surgery.  The pillars are inserted into the soft palate (back of the roof of the mouth) under local anesthesia.   The implants should not be seen or felt. 

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The goal of the implant is to stiffen the soft palate thereby treating the source of vibration and relaxation of this region.   By doing so, snoring is reduced or eliminated and breathing is improved.  The positive effects are generally seen within 8-10 weeks of the procedure. 

While it's a good stand alone choice for many for treatment of snoring and mild OSA, those with more severe OSA should expect that they will need further treatment such as CPAP. 

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The procedure is quite successful in majority of individuals with a favorable anatomy.  A comprehensive assessment and exam can determine if you are a candidate for the procedure.  One of the biggest benefits to this procedure is that the chance of complications are very low and requires no significant "down time" compared to other more invasive options.   Post operative throat discomfort is generally mild and majority of patients return to work the same day or the next day.  

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Requisites

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Pillar Procedure maybe an option for you for the management of your snoring or mild sleep apnea. 

Following requisites are important prior to undergoing the procedure.

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• You are in reasonably good health with no critical unstable medical condition.

• You are able to take 1-2 days off school or work if needed for recovery. 

• You have had an evaluation with a qualified surgeon to determine appropriateness of the procedure. 

• You have discussed the procedure with your surgeon and understand potential risks & benefits of the procedure.

• Able to stop blood thinning medications prior to the procedure.

 

 

Risks of Pillar Procedure

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Although every surgery and treatment has risks, good news is that the procedure can be very safely performed for most with exceedingly small risk of serious complications.  Risks include the following.

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• Bleeding and infection.  Universal risk with all surgeries.  Risk is very low. 

• Pain.  Mild for most.  Ibuprofen and tylenol if needed is sufficient for most.

• Extrusion of the pillar implants.  The pillar implants should not be seen or felt.  Extrusion may occur requiring removal and replacement.

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What to expect

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• Surgery is performed under local anesthesia in our office and takes 15-30 minutes. 

• Mild sore throat and sensation of swelling in the throat is normal and subsides quickly over 2 days. 

• You are encouraged to resume normal diet and activities as tolerated.

• Followup visit will be advised.  If you feel anything sharp or poking, that maybe a sign of extrusion and it is recommended you contact our office for an evaluation. 

• On call physician is available 24-7 for any post surgery emergencies.  On call MD can be contacted 24-7 by calling our office.