Effectiveness of Pillar Implants in Snoring Management

ObjectiveDetermine the effectiveness and complications of Pillar implants for snoring management in the course of routine clinical practice.MethodsRetrospective series of adult patients receiving Pillar implants for snoring management between January 2005 and December 2007. Outcomes include procedure-related complications and patient satisfaction with snoring control.ResultsA total of 58 males and 12 females with an average age of 56 years (range, 33 to 74 years) underwent placement of Pillar implants for socially disruptive snoring. 21 patients were snorers, whereas 49 had mild to moderate degrees of sleep apnea. 41 patients were treated with 3 implants, and 24 patients received 4 or more implants. The procedure was performed in the outpatient setting in 47 cases and in the operating room in 23 cases. Complications included poor placement requiring removal (5 patients), and implant extrusion (4 patients). Complications were more common with implants placed in the OR, compared to the outpatient office (p=...