Pillar® Procedure

Simple, effective treatment for sleep apnea and snoring

Man sleeping on a train In addition to interrupted sleep and daytime fatigue, sleep apnea can lead to major health problem like heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke. And disruptive snoring can contribute to conflict and stress for both sleep partners. Now there's a simple, minimally invasive option for treating mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and disruptive snoring. The Pillar® Procedure is:

  • Less invasive and less painful than other surgical procedures
  • Completed in a single, short office visit
  • FDA-cleared and clinically proven, with results comparable to more aggressive surgical procedures

Most patients soon report a noticeable, lasting reduction in snoring. In a clinical study, nearly 80% of patients' sleep apnea was reduced. Patients also experienced less daytime sleepiness.

How the Pillar® Procedure works

Diagram of pillar inserts.

The Pillar® Procedure addresses one of the anatomical components of sleep apnea and snoring: the soft palate. During the Pillar® Procedure, three tiny woven inserts are placed in the soft palate to help reduce the vibration that causes snoring and the ability of the soft palate to obstruct the airway. Once in place, the inserts add structural support to the soft palate. Over time, the body's natural tissue response to the inserts increases the structural integrity of the soft palate.

Pillar® inserts are made of material used in implantable medical devices for more than 50 years. They are designed to be invisible, and should not be felt or interfere with swallowing or speech. Many patients resume normal diet and activities the same day.

Please contact ENT Specialists of Arizona for an evaluation.

For more information or an appointment contact us.