Breathe Easy and Sleep Soundly: Sleep Apnea Surgery by Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M.

Do you experience frequent pauses in your breathing during sleep, followed by gasping or snorting?

These could be signs of sleep apnea, a serious condition that disrupts your sleep and affects your overall health. At Columbia Asia Referral Hospital in Yeswanthpur, Bangalore, our esteemed ENT specialist and surgeon, Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M., offers effective sleep apnea surgery options to help you breathe easier and sleep soundly throughout the night.

About Sleep Apnea Surgery

Sleep apnea occurs when your airway becomes blocked during sleep, interrupting your breathing. This can happen repeatedly throughout the night, leading to sleep deprivation and various health complications. Sleep apnea surgery aims to address the anatomical abnormalities causing the airway blockage and improve your breathing during sleep.

About Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M.

Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M. is a highly regarded ENT specialist with over 20 years of experience. He holds qualifications from prestigious institutions and is the Chief of ENT at Columbia Asia Referral Hospital. Dr. Murthy possesses extensive expertise in various sleep apnea surgical procedures, allowing him to recommend the most suitable approach for your specific needs.

The Surgical Process

The type of sleep apnea surgery recommended by Dr. Murthy will depend on the severity and cause of your condition. Here are some common procedures:

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): This minimally invasive surgery involves trimming or tightening excess tissue in the soft palate and uvula to improve airflow.
• Maxillomandibular Advancement (MMA): In severe cases, this surgery involves surgically repositioning the upper jaw and lower jaw forward to enlarge the airway.
• Genioglossus Advancement: This procedure advances the chin bone and tongue muscles to prevent them from collapsing and blocking the airway during sleep.
• Radiofrequency Ablation: This uses radiofrequency energy to shrink tissues in the soft palate, reducing their vibration and improving airflow.
• Tracheostomy: In rare cases, a surgical opening is created in the windpipe (trachea) to create a permanent alternative airway.

Benefits and Risks of Surgery

Benefits:

• Improved sleep quality and reduced daytime sleepiness
• Reduced risk of health complications associated with sleep apnea, such as heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure
• Long-lasting results for many patients
• Minimally invasive options available (for some procedures)

Risks:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing (temporary)
• Changes in facial appearance (with some procedures)
• Recurrence of sleep apnea (uncommon)

Dr. Murthy will discuss the potential benefits and risks of each surgical option in detail during your consultation.

Recovery

Recovery following sleep apnea surgery varies depending on the specific procedure performed. Minimally invasive options typically involve a shorter recovery period, while more complex surgeries might require a longer timeframe. Dr. Murthy will provide specific instructions on post-operative care, including pain medication, dietary modifications, and activity restrictions to promote healing.

FAQs

1. Is sleep apnea surgery the only treatment option?

Not always. Depending on the severity of your sleep apnea, Dr. Murthy might recommend lifestyle modifications or the use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine as a first-line treatment. Surgery is typically considered when other approaches haven't been successful.

2. Will I need to use a CPAP machine after surgery?

In some cases, sleep apnea surgery can eliminate the need for a CPAP machine. However, depending on the severity of your condition and the surgical approach, Dr. Murthy will advise if CPAP therapy might still be necessary for optimal results.

3. What are the long-term benefits of sleep apnea surgery?

Sleep apnea surgery can significantly improve your sleep quality, reduce your risk of health complications, and enhance your overall well-being. It's a long-lasting solution for many patients, allowing them to breathe easier and enjoy a better quality of life.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M.

If you suspect sleep apnea is affecting your sleep and health, contact Columbia Asia Referral Hospital to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sreenivasa Murthy T.M. His expertise and personalized approach can help you find a solution to sleep apnea and experience the benefits of restful sleep once again.