Obstructive sleep apnea – a form of apnea in which there is a physical obstruction to obtaining enough oxygen – is common in children, and enlarged tonsils are usually the cause. In children, a tonsillectomy is a serious surgery but quite common. Children have a short recovery time made more tolerable with plenty of ice cream. But did you know that obstructive sleep apnea in adults can also be caused by enlarged tonsils?
Adult Tonsillectomy
According to research published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), children undergoing a tonsillectomy recover more quickly. The procedure itself takes far less time in a child and the child experiences less intraoperative blood loss. Children also experience measurably less pain than adults during the first week post-op.
Alternatives to Tonsil Removal for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
For adults whose tonsils are contributing to obstructive sleep apnea, a tonsillectomy may be required. There are, however, less invasive procedures to consider. One such procedure, the tonsil ablation, is a minimally invasive procedure performed by the specialists at eos sleep shop using a laser. The laser ablation reduces the size of the tonsils without invasive surgery. The results of the ablation are to reduce obstruction, open the airway, and reducing the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea.
How Is Laser Tonsil Ablation Performed?
Using precision laser technology, the outer surfaces of the tonsils are vaporized. Using laser treatment, we can significantly reduce the size of the tonsils and remove any infection present in the tonsils. This minimally invasive procedure causes little discomfort and most patients recovery quickly, resuming their normal diets within a day. It is an effective treatment method for increasing airway size and controlling obstructive sleep apnea.
If you are suffering from snoring or sleep apnea and believe you may benefit from laser tonsil ablation, the first step is to consult with an ear, nose, and throat expert. Specialists at eos sleep have extensive experience in laser tonsil ablation. Call 1-212-873-6036 today or fill out the form on this page to schedule an appointment or to learn more about eos sleep treatment options.