|
 |
Objective
Assessment of Snoring Before and After Laser-Assisted Uvulopalaplasty |
|
|
|
The Somnoplasty Procedure | |
|
|
Injection Snoreplasty | |
|
Doctor
Makes Snore Losers Happy (Chicago Tribune Article) |
Adapted from a brochure provided by Sharplan Lasers,
Inc.
SwiftLaser is a trademark of Sharplan Lasers, Inc.
How Common is Snoring?One out of every four people is a habitual snorer. The problem is more frequent in males and the overweight, and worsens with age.
What Are The Existing Treatments For Snoring?
Snoring "cures" vary widely, ranging from sewing a tennis ball into a snorer's pajama back to electric shock mechanisms that give the snorer an unpleasant jolt. Most of these remedies and devices are based upon some sort of sleep behavior modification, with the presumption that a person can be trained or conditioned not to snore. Unfortunately, the snorer has no control over snoring whatsoever, and so if these devices do work, it is probably because they keep the snorer awake.
What Causes Snoring?
Snoring is often related to physical obstructive breathing during sleep, when the muscles of the palate, the uvula, and sometimes the tonsils relax and act as vibrating noise-makers when the air of breathing moves across them. Excessive bulkiness of tissue in the back of the throat as it narrows into the airway can also contribute to snoring, as can a long palate and/or uvula.
Should I Worry If I Snore?
Socially, snoring is disruptive to family life, causing other family members sleepless nights and often resentfulness. Snorers become unwelcome roomates on vacations and business trips. Also, snoring actually disturbs the sleeping patterns of the snorer, making restful sleep difficult. Finally, snoring can be an indicator of obstructive sleep apnea - a serious medical problem.
The LAUP PhenomenaLaser-Assisted Uvula-Palatoplasty (LAUP) is a treatment for snoring developed in France by Dr. Yves Kamami that utilizes the SwiftLaser.™ This unique laser removes tissue so gently and cleanly that patients can be treated in the physician's office using only local anesthesia. LAUP has quickly become popular with both physicians and patients in the U.S. as a less invasive alternative to Uvulo-Palato-pharyngoplasty (UPPP) - a surgical procedure performed in a hospital operating room under general anesthesia. UPPP is usually associated with significant pain and bleeding, as well as several weeks recovery time.
How Is The Laser Used To Treat Snoring?
Laser-Assisted Uvula-Platoplasty (LAUP) is performed right in the doctor's office to treat snoring. Patients sit upright and fully awake in a comfortable chair - much like a visit to the dentist. Local anesthesia is applied, and then the SwiftLaser is used to shorten the palate and to trim and reshape the uvula. Each LAUP session takes about ten minutes, and the full treatment is spread over a number of sessions spaced about four weeks apart.
What Are The Advantages Of SwiftLaser Treatment?
The SwiftLaser uses advanced char-free technology to minimize pain and bleeding during the LAUP procedure. Patients resume normal activity after each session and may experience a sore throat for a few days. Significant improvement usually occurs after the first few sessions. While the cure rate is 85-95%, almost everyone reports some reduction in their snoring after LAUP treatment.
How Do I Know If SwiftLaser Treatment Is Right Form Me?
The initial consultation with your doctor will include an examination to determine whether SwiftLaser treatment for snoring is indicated, and usually a test for obstructive sleep apnea. If you and your doctor decide to go ahead with the treatment, a series of appointments will be scheduled.
Will Insurance Cover The Cost of Treatment?
Although the SwiftLaser has FDA marketing clearance specifically for the treatment of snoring, insurance carriers may or may not routinely reimburse for the LAUP procedure. You should check with your insurance carrier for information about specific benefits.
Text and Images: © Sharplan Lasers, Inc.
E.N.T. Consultants of Lake County, Ltd.
William M. Gatti, M.D.
755 S. Milwaukee Avenue, Suite #181
Libertyville, IL 60048
(847) 816-1228
