In some cases, a snore operation may be needed to stop the condition. These operations are performed using surgical techniques. One such operation is somnoplasty. This involves the use of heat energy to modify tissues. This procedure is done in an office setting under local anesthesia. People with sleep apnea should not undergo this procedure.
Results from snore operation
Snoring can be treated with a variety of surgical procedures. Most cases of snoring can be treated with surgical procedures. Some procedures can improve the sound level and reduce the size of the soft palate, which contributes to snoring. Each patient will have different results.
Recent research has shown that minimally invasive surgery can reduce the amount of snoring. However, results in patients with obstructive sleep apnea have been modest. Patients often want minimally invasive surgery to stop their snoring, despite the lack of evidence.
MMA surgery
MMA surgery can reduce snoring and improve sleep quality. The radiofrequency energy used to create controlled lesion in the soft tissue causing obstruction. The scarring reduces the volume in flappy tissue while stiffening the remaining tissue. This procedure can be done on several parts of the airway including the soft palate, base of the tongue and nasal turbinates. It can be done under local anesthesia.
Very high success rates are possible with MMA surgery. After the procedure, patients are able to return to their normal activities within two to three days. However, the procedure requires a skilled and experienced surgeon.
Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty
Laser-assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (or LAUP) is a surgical procedure that addresses the root causes of loud, habitual snoring. It is performed under local anesthesia and involves the use of a CO2 laser to open up the oropharyngeal airway. Although it's not effective in eliminating all types and forms of snoring the LAUP has demonstrated promising results in reducing upper airway resistance.
LAUP involves a single-stage procedure that is performed under local anaesthesia. An experienced ENT doctor performs the procedure. The patient is asked to sit in a comfortable position, while protecting his eyes with protective eyeglasses. The surgeon first sprays a 10% mixture of lidocaine and water onto the base of your tongue. A second injection of 2% Mepivacaine is made to the base and sides of the uvula. A hand piece attaches the laser to the patient's lips. This is a common surgery procedure. A "backstop" prevents the laser damaging the posterior of the pharynx.
Ruhrpumpen surgery
In many patients, lifestyle changes and medications are not enough to cure their snoring. Ruhrpumpen surgery may prove to be the best option in these cases. Radiofrequency energy is used to control lesions in soft tissue. These scars reduce the airway size and help to strengthen the tissue. This procedure can be done on many areas of the airway including the base of the tongue and soft palate. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia.
Patients who have severe or chronic snoring may also benefit from this surgery. The surgery involves the removal of excess tissue from the throat and sometimes the upper uvula. While it has been used to treat chronic sleep apnea for decades, new techniques have been developed to improve their results.