Sleep Apnea
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.
In addition to a detailed history, the doctors will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With cephalometric (skull x-ray) analysis, the doctors can ascertain the level of obstruction. Sometimes a naso-pharyngeal exam is done with a flexible fiber-optic camera. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
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CPAP Machine
There are several treatment options available. An initial treatment may consist of using a nasal CPAP machine that delivers pressurized oxygen through a nasal mask to limit obstruction at night. One of the surgical options is an uvulo-palato-pharyngo-plasty (UPPP), which is performed in the back of the soft palate and throat. A similar procedure is sometimes done with the assistance of a laser and is called a laser assisted uvulo-palato-plasty (LAUPP). In other cases, a radio-frequency probe is utilized to tighten the soft palate. These procedures usually performed under light IV sedation in the office.
In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day overnight stay in the hospital.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
appointment scheduled for consultation on Thursday 8/21/24 at 2:20 - Joy L This Dr.Saal is surly one that is few and far in-between. He knows what he's doing. Had a tooth pulled that was bothering me and, had a referral from 2 other doctors. I was very concerned. Had the procedure done and, had ZERO pain the entire time. Dr. Saal Himself called me the Same evening to check on me. Asked if I was ok and, if I needed ANYTHING, don't hesitate to call. I was amazed. This NEVER happens. He will surely be missed when he decides to retire. 150% recommend. Thank you ALL very much. - Todd P Over the past month I have had multiple appointments with oral-facial, the experiences I have had each & every time have been amazing. Everyone has been so supportive & caring. If you have any oral surgery needs you will not be disappointed. You guys rock!!! - Cherise T I highly recommend Dr. Baughman! I was so nervous to have my wisdom teeth removed, but he made the whole experience wonderful. He even calls the night of surgery to check in on you. His staff is very friendly as well! - Kayla D Highly recommend Dr. Saal - very thorough, taking time to answer my questions. Staff was friendly & helpful. - Kathy C Dr. Baughman came to my rescue once again. I will continue to use and recommend services. - Jean T Super nice dentist! Very attentive! Actually cares about the well being and comfort of his patient! Takes the time to listen and hear your concerns! - Sierra Bring it was basically my first time ever going to a dentist type setting. They were so awsome I’m making you comfortable and explain everything to you that needs to be done. And are very considerate. Will be going there from now on with any dental issues I have. Would recommend them over and over - Roy M Amazing office staff! Dr. Baughman was exceptional! He kept me at ease and helped calm my nerves during the procedure. He even made me laugh and may have laughed at me ! The follow up call he made that afternoon was so thoughtful! This office is a class act - Karen B I'd like to thank Dr. Saal and his entire staff for attending to my needs courteously and professionally. The Thibodaux office added a level of convenience that I also appreciate. More so, I'm grateful for Dr. Saal's personal follow-up call on the evening following my surgery. - Albert D I really appreciated that Dr. Baughman called me the night of my procedure to see how I was doing. I thought that was a such a kind gesture & never had a Dr. do that before.
- Sarah G I highly recommend Dr. Saul. He's very sweet and has a great bedside manner. He removed wisdom teeth for both of my boys. I was shocked when he called me himself to check and see how my boys were doing after their surgeries. I'm very pleased with Dr. Saul and his staff. Everyone is very nice there. - Sheri K I highly recommend Dr Baughman and staff to anyone that needs an oral facial surgeon. I had a traumatic facial injury that required emergency surgery for a fractured jaw and to save my front teeth. Wonderful bedside manner, gentle and kind staff and very soothing. Present day, my teeth were saved, and you cannot tell I was ever Injured. - Shelly C They were awesome, made me comfortable took care of the problem and check on me after . Thanks a bunch - Akima A Great bedside manner, I was surprised when he called to check on me in the evening after the surgery. - Deborah B They were really nice and made me feel very comfortable. It was my first real surgery and I was very nervous. They made me calm and reassured me it was going to be okay - Sarah M Wonderful experience. Easy to deal worth customer care. - Mason B For the most part I'm satisfied with all of the office staff and procedures.
- Libby V Overall outstanding office for my oral surgery... - Clarence H Would recommend Dr. Saal to anyone! He has a very friendly staff as well! - Maddie COral Facial Surgery Center
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