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THE PILLAR PROCEDUREThe patented Pillar™ System employs an entirely new approach to treating the soft palate. The System effectively reduces the palatal component of snoring by stiffening the palate tissue, thereby reducing the vibration that causes the snoring sounds. Facts about the Pillar Procedure: Facts about the Pillar Procedure:During the procedure, no tissue is removed. Instead, three tiny inserts are placed in your soft palate. The inserts support and stiffen the palate, which will likely resolve the snoring. The inserts are made of a polyester material that causes a stiffening response in the palate tissue itself. This is the same material used in heart repair and stomach surgery. Unlike other procedures, the Pillar procedure does not require sclerosing agents or removing tissue, which means the procedure causes minimal discomfort and recovery time is short. In fact, most patients resume a normal diet and activities the same day. The Palatal Restoration procedure is performed in our office in a single brief visit. Most patients begin to see a reduction in their snoring in days up to four to six weeks and have the potential of experiencing a lasting effect. How long does the effect last? Is it permanent?The insert is designed to be permanent and the effect of the treatment is designed to be long lasting because the insert causes a long-term effect of fibrosis (stiffening). This effect stiffens the palate and changes its response to airflow, similar to the way that battens stiffen a sail to prevent it from flapping in the breeze. Clinical studies show that patients and bed partner satisfaction with this procedure remains high after one year. How will I feel after the procedure?Patients report that the procedure causes minimal discomfort. Some take a mild pain reliever after the anesthetic of the procedure wears off, and most are able to resume normal diet and activities the same day. How does Palatal Restoration differ from other treatments?There are several key differences: Simple Treatment: the treatment is done in one brief office visit; some other treatments require a series of treatments. Minimal Discomfort: Palatal Restoration does not require chemical agents or removal of tissue. Consequently, the procedure causes only minimal discomfort and most patients resume normal diet and activities the same day. Results: Most patients report a noticeable improvement in snoring from days up to 4-6 weeks, and once resolved the effects should be virtually permanent. How are the inserts placed in the soft palate?Each patient receives three Pillar™ inserts. The Pillar™ inserts are preloaded into a specially designed hollow needle portion of the delivery tool. To place each insert, the physician inserts the needle into the soft palate. The Pillar™ insert is left embedded in the soft palate tissue while the needle is removed. The palate tissue is not cut or removed. Can it be used on people with sleep apnea?There is now FDA clearance for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. This is an effective technique for highly selected individuals. It is not the ideal choice for others. A detailed assessment and examination is needed to determine if you are a candidate.
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