Is an Injection Snoreplasty a Viable Solution to Snoring?
An injection Snoreplasty is a modern medical procedure that is believed to reduce and stop snoring. It stands out in comparison to other treatments like tonsillectomies and adenoidectomies because of its reduced pain, fastness, and budget-friendliness. The procedure is conducted by first numbing the upper palate of the mouth by injecting a stiffening or sclerosing agent that develops scar tissue in that area, which leads to reducing vibrations that cause snoring.
ENT Exam
Before committing to this procedure, an ENT (Ear Nose and Throat) exam is conducted. The thorough examination is required to confirm that this treatment is right for the patient and to identify if a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep apnea is existing. The doctor might order a sleep test to monitor the patient's snoring and to diagnose possible sleep apnea. Current clinical studies are being conducted to determine if injection snoreplasty can be used for sleep apnea in the future.
Procedure
The actual procedure is not technically referred to as a surgery, but rather as a "nonsurgical treatment", similar to getting a fast filling at the dentist. The patient will check in to the doctor's office, the throat will be numbed, then a fluid dubbed Sotradecola is injected, and later this promotes tissue scarring. Following the procedure, the patient is able to go home the same day and even continue going about their day.
Expectations
After the injection, it is normal to experience tenderness in the roof of the mouth. This might or might not require pain medication depending on the individual's reaction to the injection. The patient can expect some swelling too. Over the counter pain relievers or throat spray may be recommended by the doctor, and also additional pain medication may be given if needed. A sore throat might stick around for several days. If the patient is taking other medications, they must check with their doctor to make sure they won't interfere with the prescribed painkillers approved by the doctor.
After the Treatment
It is common to feel like something is stuck in the back of the throat after the injection, this is usually because the body has not scarred and hardened to stabilize itself. The feeling usually fades after a few days. Following the injection you will need to reform any habits or lifestyle changes that will contribute to snoring, such as losing weight, exercise, quitting smoking, stopping the consumption of alcohol, etc. You will also have to return for follow-up appointment to assess the scarring and further analyze if a second treatment is needed, and maybe a second sleep test is conducted.
Risks
Injection snoreplasty has been shown to be a safe procedure and has been relatively painless and quick. However, there are some risks associated with it. Infection, pain, swelling, and altered voice quality/tone are a few of the more common side-effects that could come from this procedure. Thankfully, these risks are rare and don’t usually lead to any more serious problems.
Summary
Injection snoreplasty is a minimally invasive and budget-friendly way to reduce the vibrations caused by snoring. Depending on your individual needs, risks, and savings, injection snoreplasty could be the ideal type of persecution for you. It is always best to contact an ENT specialist who can further answer your questions and help you to decide whether or not this treatment is right for you.
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