Snoring Nedir?
Snoring is a condition in which the airflow in the respiratory tract is blocked during sleep, resulting in audible breathing. Snoring can be a simple discomfort or a symptom of serious health problems. Especially in people who snore regularly throughout the night, there may be a risk of more complex health problems such as sleep apnoea.
Sleep Apnesi What is it?
Sleep apnoea is a disorder characterised by temporary cessation or weakening of breathing during sleep. This condition can lead to excessive fatigue, lack of attention, irritability and general health problems during the day by impairing sleep quality. There are two main types of sleep apnoea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA):
A condition in which the airway is blocked in the throat, preventing breathing.
Central Sleep Apnoea:
Respiratory arrest as a result of the brain's inability to stimulate the respiratory muscles sufficiently.
Sleep Apnoea Surgery What is it?
Sleep apnoea surgery is a surgical intervention used to treat sleep apnoea syndrome. Surgery is usually preferred when other treatment methods are inadequate. Sleep apnoea is divided into various types such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) or central sleep apnoea. Surgical intervention is usually performed to correct anatomical problems that cause obstruction.
Sleep Apnoea Surgery Who is it suitable for?
Sleep apnoea surgery may be recommended in the following cases:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): Cases of sleep apnoea caused by anatomical obstruction of the airway in the throat.
- Cases where other treatment methods are inadequate: Cases where symptoms persist despite treatments such as CPAP devices or intraoral devices.
- Anatomical Issues: Large tonsils, soft palate problems or defects in the structure of the nose.
- Genetic Structure: Those who suffer from obstruction due to disorders in the jaw structure or tongue position.
Sleep Apnoea Surgery Methods
Sleep apnoea surgery can be performed by various methods depending on the patient's condition. Common surgical options are as follows:
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): It is a procedure to widen the airway by removing tissues around the soft palate, tonsils and pharynx in the throat.
Geniglossal Forward Movement Surgery (GGA): It aims to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway by pulling the tongue forwards.
Septoplasty In cases where nasal obstruction causes sleep apnoea, the curvature of the nasal septum is corrected.
Jaw Surgery (Bimaxillary Osteotomy): The airway is widened by correcting the jaw structure.
Throat Implants: The airway is opened with implants placed in the soft palate area in the throat.
Rhinoplasty By correcting the structural disorders in the nose, breathing through the nose is relieved.
Sleep Apnoea Surgery Post Recovery Process
The recovery process after sleep apnoea surgery varies depending on the individual, but the following stages are usually observed:
- First 24-48 hours: There may be mild pain, swelling and tightness in the throat for a few days after the operation. During this period, relief is provided with painkillers.
- First Week The healing process begins in the throat. During this period, hoarseness and difficulty swallowing may occur.
- Longer Lasting Recovery: The healing process may take several weeks. During this period, it is recommended to avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and excessive physical activity.
The healing process may vary depending on the general health status of the patient and the type of surgery performed.
Sleep Apnoea Surgery Risks
As with any surgical procedure, sleep apnoea surgery has some risks:
- Risk of Infection: Surgical site infections are usually treated with antibiotic therapy.
- Haemorrhage Bleeding may occur during or after the operation.
- Pain and Discomfort: During the healing process, there may be pain, especially in the throat, or difficulty swallowing.
- Snoring after surgery: Some patients may report that snoring persists after surgical intervention. This situation varies depending on the surgical technique used and the healing process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is suitable for sleep apnoea surgery?
Sleep apnoea surgery is especially suitable for patients with obstructive sleep apnoea, who do not benefit from other treatment methods and have anatomical problems.
Which techniques are used in sleep apnoea surgery?
The surgery can be performed with different techniques depending on the patient's condition. The most common methods include Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), Geniglossal Forward Movement Surgery (GGA), septoplasty, jaw surgery and throat implants.
How long does the healing process take after the operation?
The healing process usually takes several weeks. Pain, swelling and tightness in the throat may occur during the first 1-2 weeks. Full recovery may require 4-6 weeks.
Does snoring persist after surgery?
In some patients, snoring may persist after surgery. However, this depends on the type of surgery and the healing process.
Are the results after sleep apnoea surgery permanent?
In most patients, the results after surgery are permanent, but in some patients, re-occlusion may occur. If symptoms of sleep apnoea occur again, additional treatment may be required.
How long does sleep apnoea surgery take?
The duration of the operation varies depending on the surgical method used, but usually takes between 1 and 3 hours.
What are the risks of the operation?
As with any surgical procedure, there may be complications such as infection, bleeding, pain and complications during the healing process. However, these risks are usually minimal and are monitored by your doctor.
Does snoring continue after sleep apnoea surgery?
Most patients get rid of snoring complaints after surgery, but in some cases snoring may continue. In this case, additional treatment options may be considered.
