Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common and effective way of treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea. A CPAP system consists of a small, quiet, bedside unit that delivers a flow of air through a tube and mask system.
The continuous pressure provided by this medical device prevents the airway from collapsing while you sleep, allowing normal breathing throughout the night. The pressure is just enough to keep your air passage open, preventing most forms of apnea and snoring.
The basic form of treatment is fixed CPAP therapy which provides one constant treatment pressure throughout the night. Auto CPAP (APAP), varies the pressure during the night, breath by breath as it responds to the changes in your airway.
EXTENSIVE FOLLOW UP PROGRAM
Dental Appliance
Included with the purchase of a CPAP unit, the follow up program consists of an optional one, three, six, and 12-month follow up appointments. At this time we would review the effectiveness of the therapy and the overall compliance.
Written communication is maintained with the referring physician from the initial consultation through to the follow up as an objective assessment of the effectiveness of the therapy.
OTHER TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE
Uvolopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)
The most common surgical procedure is
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), which removes excess tissue at the back of the throat. None of the surgical procedures are 100 percent successful or without risk. It will likely decrease the loudness of snoring, however, is not always successful in improving OSA. Should you consider exercising this option, it is very important to first discuss it with your physician. Not everybody is a candidate for this procedure therefore; you will require a consult with a specialist prior to starting this treatment.
Dental Appliance
A dentist or an orthodontist can help fit you with an oral appliance (dental splint) that may prevent the jaw and tongue from moving back when you sleep. This can be an option in some cases of mild obstructive sleep apnea and may be effective, however, there is little data to predict the rate or degree of the success.
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