Soft Palate Implants: A New Treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Problem: Pillar soft palate implants are a new treatment for snoring. However, the effects of the implants in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have not been studied. In this pilot study, we examined the safety and efficacy of the placement of implants in the soft palate of patients diagnosed with OSA. Methods: Adult patients with a diagnosis of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea were chosen to participate in this multi-center, nonrandomized, prospective, clinical study. Patients with other mitigating procedures or previous surgical treatments of the soft palate or upper airway and significant nasal and/or tongue obstruction were excluded. All patients will have an attended, in-laboratory polysomnogram prior to and 6 months following the implant procedure. Results: At this time, a total of 4 patients have been enrolled in this study. To date, there have been no adverse events. Our preliminary results demonstrate a clinical improvement in symptoms associated with OSA. Polysomnographic data are forthcoming. Conclusion: Our initial impression is that palatal implants can be safely placed in patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Also, a clinical improvement has been noted in the symptoms associated with OSA. Significance: Palatal implants may be a new treatment for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. Support: None reported.