Pillar Procedure for Sleep Apnea and Snoring

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The Pillar Procedure is a simple, effective treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea and snoring. Features of the Pillar Procedure include:

• Less invasive and less painful than other surgical procedures
• Completed in a single, short office visit
• FDA-Cleared and clinically proven, with results comparable to more aggressive surgical procedures
• More than 30,000 procedures worldwide

Most patients soon report a drastic reduction in snoring. In clinical studies, approximately 80% of patients’ sleep apnea improved. Patients also experienced less daytime sleepiness. The Pillar Procedure addresses one of the anatomical components of sleep apnea and snoring: the soft palate.

During the Pillar Procedure, Dr. Martini places 3 to 5 tiny woven inserts into the soft palate to help reduce the vibration that causes snoring and the ability of the soft palate to obstruct the airway. The inserts add structural support to the soft palate. This results from the body’s natural tissue response to the inserts.

Pillar implants are usually well tolerated. They are made from the same material that has been used over the past 50 years for other implantable medical devices. They are designed to be invisible, and usually not be felt or interfere with swallowing or speech. Many patients resume normal diet and activities the same day.

Who can benefit from Pillar Implants?

• Patients who snore
• The bed partners of patient who snore
• Patient with sleep apnea
• Patients who are frustrated with C-PAP

Can you tolerate C-PAP?

C-PAP can be a wonderful tool; however, many patients cannot tolerate this. The Pillar Procedure alone or in combination with other minimally invasive techniques in many cases can eliminate the need for C-PAP. To discuss the role Pillar Implants may play in treatment of snoring and sleep apnea, schedule a consultation.