Using oral surgery to help sleep apnea seeks to remove the excess tissue in the throat that is vibrating and blocking the upper air passages. One surgical procedure is an Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). This procedure involves removing the excess tissue from the upper mouth and throat. This procedure in performed in a hospital under general anesthesia. Maxillomandibular advancement is another type of procedure used to assist with sleep apnea. This procedure involves the upper and lower part of the jaw. In this procedure, the jaw is moved forward from the rest of the facial bones. This allows more room behind the soft palate, thereby reducing the obstruction. Finally a Tracheostomy is a last ditch effort when other treatments have failed. This involves the surgeon inserting a tube in your throat so you can breathe. It is covered during the day, but opens at night while you sleep. All of the aforementioned surgeries are routine and very safe.
At risk Signs and symptoms for sleep apnea in children
- Mouth Breathing
- Restless Sleep
- Snoring
- Bedwetting
- attention difficulties in school
- ADD/ADHD diangosis
- Daytime sleepiness
- Poor School Performance
Sleep apnea in children is treated differently that sleep apnea in adults. CPAP (continuous positive air pressure) masks can cause facial growth deformities in children when used long term. We look at the child as a whole. By addressing the airway with the help of ENT doctor, addressing defects in structures on the mouth and jaw with the dentist, and addressing poor mouth posture with help from a myofunctional therapists, we can help your child overcome a lifetime of breathing difficulties.