The Pillar® Procedure - FAQs
What is the Pillar Procedure?
The Pillar Procedure is a simple, effective, first-line treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and socially disruptive snoring. Known by the medical term “palatal restoration,” the procedure only takes a single, brief visit to the physician’s office. After first numbing the area with a local anesthetic, your physician embeds three tiny inserts in your soft palate
using a specially designed delivery tool. The inserts cause a stiffening effect in the palate tissue to prevent vibration (snoring) and obstruction (OSA) of the airway during sleep.
How does the Pillar Procedure 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 visits or an operating room procedure.
Minimal discomfort. Palatal restoration does not require chemical agents, heating or removing tissue. Therefore the procedure causes minimal discomfort and most patients
resume normal diet and activities the same day.
Results. Most patients report a noticeable improvement within 4 to 6 weeks, and because the implant is designed to be permanent they have the potential of experiencing a lasting effect.
How do I know if the Pillar Procedure will work for me?
Success with the Pillar Procedure can be influenced by tongue position, tonsil size and other factors. Your doctor will do a physical exam to determine if your palate is the likely cause of your sleep apnea or snoring and if you are a good candidate.
How does the treatment work?
As throat muscles relax during sleep, unsupported tissues in the back of the mouth and the throat may stretch and collapse. This reduces the size of the airway and obstructs
breathing. It can also cause the soft palate to vibrate or undulate, causing snoring sounds. (Studies estimate that nearly 80% of all sleep apnea and snoring may be caused either entirely or in part by the soft palate.) The inserts stiffen the soft palate, reducing its
vibration and ability to obstruct the airway during sleep.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure takes one, short visit to the physician’s office.
Is it painful?
Because tissue is not removed or damaged, discomfort is minimal. Some patients use an over-the-counter pain reliever after the procedure and most are able to resume normal
activities and diet the same day.