Millions of people are desperate to find a sleep apnea solution, even if it involves surgery. Two such surgical options, the Pillar Procedure, and Genial Bone Advancement Trephine (GBAT) are described in this article. Considering that people who have sleep apnea have a higher mortality rate than those who do not, this is important information to read.

Pillar Procedure

A minimally invasive surgical procedure involving the placement of multiple (3-5) small rods made of polyester in the soft palate thus reducing collapse of the upper airway and consequent snoring, the Pillar Procedure is used to treat those who suffer from mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).   Not all people who suffer from sleep apnea are candidates for this surgery: Evaluation by an ear, nose, and throat specialist is required to determine who may benefit from this surgical procedure. Performed at an office visit, the Pillar Procedure is FDA cleared and has been clinically proven to have similar results to more aggressive surgical treatments.   Good results have been obtained, with reduction of snoring and an 80% success rate in the treatment of sleep apnea.

Genial Bone Advancement Trephine (GBAT)

In this surgical procedure, the tongue is pulled forward to increase airway space by surgically removing a small portion of the chin bone to which the tongue is attached. Then that portion of the chin bone is moved forward slightly and re-attached via a metal plate. The surgical incision itself is done inside the lower lip to avoid any external incisions or cosmetic changes.   Since there is more room in the back of the throat, there is less of a chance of obstruction of the airway when the tongue relaxes during sleep. 

Just a few millimeters of adjustment is all it takes to refine a compromised airway to one which is free and clear of obstruction. Test yourself while awake: Breathe through your mouth with your tongue in a relaxed position. Then retract your tongue just a bit and try to breathe through your mouth again. You will get the full impact of what it feels like to have obstructive sleep apnea while awake. Now imagine that happening to you dozens to hundreds of times per night.

As the seriousness of snoring and sleep apnea emerges, more sleep apnea solution and treatment options will also be developed. These cannot come soon enough because over 18 million people suffer from this debilitating condition that impacts quality of and length of life for sleep apnea sufferers.