WHAT IS THE PILLAR PROCEDURE FOR SNORING AND SLEEP APNEA? DOES IT REALLY WORK?

In the Pillar Procedure, small implants are inserted into the soft palate to help stiffen the soft palate and diminish the collapse that contributes to snoring and sleep apnea. The Pillar Procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes around 20 minutes to perform in the clinic setting with most patients. Several studies have shown a significant decrease in patient snoring intensity with associated decreases in daytime sleepiness and significant improvements in lifestyle after patients underwent the Pillar Procedure. Other studies have demonstrated patient and bed partner satisfaction with the reduction in snoring after the Pillar Procedure at 80% or higher77 78. Studies of patients with OSA demonstrate approximately 80% of patients with a reduction in their AHI (sleep index), and results were sustained at one year after palatal implants/Pillar Procedure79 80 81 82 83 84. Another study has documented significant improvement in snoring and sleep apnea with insertion of palatal implants in patients who had failed surgical intervention with prior uvulapalatopharyngoplasty85. The data in support of the Pillar Implant as an effective, minimally invasive treatment for patients with snoring and/or OSA continues to grow.