The Pillar® Procedure - FAQ's
How are the inserts placed in the soft palate?
Each patient receives three Pillar inserts. The inserts are preloaded into a specially designed delivery tool. Each insert and its delivery tool are provided in a sterile package to the physician. To place each insert, the physician inserts the delivery tool into the soft palate. The Pillar insert is left embedded in the soft palate tissue and the delivery tool into
the soft palate. The Pillar insert is left embedded in the soft palate tissue and the delivery tool is removed. The palate tissue is not cut or removed.
Will I notice the inserts in my palate?
You will not see the inserts in your palate. A small percentage of patients report feeling a minor foreign body sensation after the procedure. This sensation is temporary and subsides after a short time.
Will there be any change in my voice or will I have any difficulty swallowing?
Physicians have not reported that patients have experienced any long-term changes in voice or difficulty swallowing.
How long does the effect last? Is it permanent?
The inserts are designed to be permanent and the effect of the treatment is designed to be long-lasting because of the effect of fibrosis. This natural tissue response stiffens the palate and changes its response to airflow. Clinical studies show that patient and sleep partner satisfaction with the procedure remain high after one year.
What kind of complications have you seen?
Since the procedure does not involve removing or damaging tissue, the risk of complication is extremely low. There have been no reported major adverse events.
Minor complications have consisted of partial extrusions that have been readily resolved by the physician simply removing the insert. A partial extrusion occurs when the tip of the insert can be felt or seen through the surface of the palate tissue. Most patients request to have the insert replaced because they were pleased with the results. Since launching the product in the US, there have been fewer than 1% reported partial extrusions.
Can the inserts be removed?
Yes. An insert can be removed in the physician’s office with a simple procedure with no special surgical tools. A patient can also have a new insert placed at the time of removal.
What kind of results can I expect?
Short-term results show that most patients experience an improvement within 4 to 6 weeks. Most patients report a noticeable and lasting reduction in snoring. In nearly 80% of patients in a clinical study, the severity of sleep apnea was reduced. More than 80% of sleep apnea patients—and their bed partners—would recommend the Pillar Procedure.
How can I find out more about Restore Medical?
Visit www.restoremedical.com.