Pillar Procedure for Sleep Apnea: Risks & Potential Complications

Sleep apnea causes many people to suffer on a nightly basis. Its major symptom, snoring, can be detrimental for both the person experiencing it, as well as their loved ones. Although it is a relatively new procedure, the pillar procedure is finding unexpectedly good results in curing the underlying causes of sleep apnea and excessive snoring. Although rare, the procedure can come with unexpected complications.



The pillar procedure involves the surgical implantation of small threaded rods into the soft palate. The rods prevent the soft palate from relaxing during sleep and reduces the effects of sleep apnea.

Partial Extrusion

• A partial extrusion occurs when an implanted rod pokes through the soft palate and causes the patient pain and discomfort. Treatment involves the removal or replacement of the pillar rods and is nearly as invasive as the initial procedure.

Infection

• As with all surgery, a minor risk of infection can exist. Patients have reported infections occurring from malfunctioning implants, resulting in pain, discomfort, sore throat and canker sores.

Minor Complications

• Some minor complications can occur from the pillar procedure. These risks include throat problems, swelling, allergic reactions and changes in voice or taste. Minor complications are often short-lived; if symptoms continue, a patient should notify his doctor.