Injection Snoreplasty Snoring Surgery
Injection snoreplasty is a simple method of controlling snoring that is safe, inexpensive, and relatively pain free.
Principle:
The snoring sound is often produced by the vibrations of the soft palate and uvula when breathing. The principle is similar to several available snoring surgery options that eliminate snoring that works by reducing the flexibility of the soft palate and the uvula.
Injection Snoreplasty is the injection of a sclerosing agent into the soft palate, which causes scarring and subsequent stiffening of the soft palate. This reduces the flutter of the soft palate, which is the cause of primary snoring.
The Technology:
During the first treatment Sotradecol is injected using a single needle penetration, into the midline soft palate using a needle bent to a 30 to 45 degree angleii. Approximately two minutes after the injection the area turns purple indicating the sclerosing agent is having an effect. Over the course of a few weeks, this leads to the formation of scar tissue and stiffening, which stops the vibration of the soft palate that causes snoring.
Efficacy:
In a study of 27 patients4 with a diagnosis of palatal flutter by sleep study, 25 patients (92%)reported a significant decrease in snoring. Of these 25 patients that were successfullytreated, 22 (88%) completed a survey with an average follow-up period of 19 months. Fourpatients (16%) reported a relapse of their snoring after treatment. Three were re-injected and theirsnoring improved.
Summary:
Injection Snoreplasy appears to be as effective, in the short term, in reducing snoring, compared with other surgical treatments. Its long-term efficacy is unknown. It may a suitable alternative to other treatment methods due to its minimal cost and minimal postoperative discomfort.