Orthognathic Surgery for Sleep Apnea
what is Sleep Apnea?
When obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat during sleep. This blocks the upper airway, and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe, called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation.
The doctors will assess as detailed history as well as the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometric (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
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Treatment Options for sleep apnea:
- An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask at night.
- A device may be placed in the mouth to position the lower jaw and tongue forward to releive the airway obstruction.
- Uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty is a surgical option performed in the back of the soft palate and throat.
- Laser assisted uvulo-palato-plasty is a similar procedure performed with the assistance of a laser.
- A radio-frequency probe can be utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures are usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.
- Orthognathic surgery repositions the upper and lower jaw bones to increase the size of the airway. This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day overnight stay in the hospital.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
Peak Implant & Oral Surgery
Patient Review
Have to say even tho my visit involved surgery ! It was a great experience. The staff was amazing. Dr. Howerton was professional but super friendly. I will differently come back if I need my other wisdom tooth extracted.
- Sesilia S
Patient Review
By far one of the most professional, pleasant and kindest experiences one could expect in a oral surgery setting.From the time of scheduling to the day of the procedure I couldn't have imagined a better outcome. On the day of procedure I told the associates that were prepping me for surgery, "I feel like i am in a spa". This is not the first time that I or my family have been patients here and I know I speak for all of us these folks are tops. Thank you all, Ralph Scariano
- Ralph S
Patient Review
The entire staff was attentive, knowledgeable and professional! Jessica was exceptional in her customer service and genuine care. She was very thorough in explaining the procedure and after care instructions. During the procedure, the staff and doctor were so attentive and asked several times if I was doing well. I really appreciate that kind of exceptional patient care! I will definitely recommend and refer others to your office!
- Jenifer S
Patient Review
Prior to my tooth extraction, if someone asked me if I like having dental work done, I would have responded with a resounding "NO". Dr. Howerton and his staff have changed my response! I was seen promptly at my appointment time and surgery preparation was begun immediately. In no time, blood pressure and heart monitoring equipment was in place and Dr. Howerton inserted the IV. During this time the staff and I were chatting as if this was no big deal. It wasn't! When I awoke, I rejoined the conversation as I was moved from the surgical table to a wheelchair. I had to ask "Is it done"? I felt terrific with no after surgery hangover. I can't believe how well the entire process has gone. It's been 21 hours since the surgery - no pain, no adverse reactions of any kind. I also appreciate the follow-up call that Dr. Howerton made to ensure that all was well. I cannot recommend Dr. Howerton or his staff highly enough. All in all, a professional and courteous experience. Thank you!
- Dennis B
Patient Review
WOW the best service i have ever had the staff were very caring and made me feel very comfortable ,And Dr Howerton was great and called me later that night to ask me if everything was going ok after the surgery WOWOWOWOW
- eric p
Patient Review
being in the amount of pain I was in changes who you are...I really cant thank you guys enough for helping so quickly with the insurance stuff...and getting me in and taken care of quickly...you guys are the greatest and I cant imagine going to anyone else...THANKS AGAIN!!!
- rhonda f
Patient Review
It's been about 24 hours since my surgery by Dr. Hopkin. Just wanted to say that, though I'd never visited this office before, I was very impressed with the kind and professional care I received on 12/3. From the reception area to my personal guide, Hayley, to the hygienist, assistants, and Dr. Hopkin I couldn't have been made more comfortable as I experienced the procedure. The guide I took home with me was explicit and very helpful. I've consulted to often. A big THANK YOU to all!!!! ( I appreciated the warm blanket, too.)
- Gerald R
Patient Review
Doc Howerton and his staff are top shelf. My main nurse sat with me before the procedure and made me feel comfortable the whole. She wheeled me into the procedure room where I was met by several other nurses that where also friendly professional and caring. The doc was sure of himself and very good. Didn't feel the IV line and it was over before I knew it. He came in after to check on me and gave me a little more local for pain. 6 hours later and I'm feeling great. Thank you so much for being a top notch business.
- Bill C.
Patient Review
My wife had her first appointment about two years ago and she got to see Dr. Kennedy. My wife is a Coumadin patient and so some special concerns are necessary. Dr. Kennedy had to extract one tooth, which he did with the very best of care. He also called at 8:00 PM that evening to make sure all was well and that she was comfortable, what a wonderful gesture on his part. Last month, on a Sunday evening, my wife was chewing some pistachios and lost most of the top of one of her teeth almost to the gum line. Monday morning very early we went to see if she could see Dr. Kennedy, but he wasn't in that day, so Dr. Howerton said that he would work her in and he did that within about a half hour. After examining her it was determined that he would need to extract two teeth. My wife suffered very little discomfort from the procedure and the staff was just wonderful. At about 8:00 PM we received a personal call from him wanting to make sure she was fine and comfortable. We cannot praise the Dr. Kennedy or Dr. Howerton or their staff enough.
- Robert T.
