ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialists treat sleep apnea using various surgical and non-surgical methods, including:
Surgical Methods:
1. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Removes excess tissue in the throat.
2. Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA): Advances the upper and lower jaw to increase airway space.
3. Septoplasty: Corrects nasal obstructions.
4. Turbinate Reduction: Reduces turbinate bone size to improve nasal airflow.
5. Tonsillectomy: Removes enlarged tonsils.
6. Adenoidectomy: Removes enlarged adenoids.
7. Hyoid Suspension: Suspends the hyoid bone to expand the airway.
Non-Surgical Methods:
1. Nasal CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): Prescribes CPAP machines.
2. Oral Appliances: Refers patients to dentists for custom-made devices.
3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): Reduces excess tissue in the nasal passages or throat.
4. Palatal Implants: Inserts small implants to stiffen the soft palate.
5. Injection Snoreplasty: Injects a sclerosing agent to reduce snoring.
ENTs may also:
1. Conduct sleep studies to diagnose sleep apnea.
2. Refer patients to sleep specialists or pulmonologists for further evaluation.
3. Provide pre- and post-operative care for surgical patients.
Note: The choice of treatment depends on the severity and type of sleep apnea, as well as individual patient needs.
Know how a ENT Specialist Treat Sleep Apnea !