This procedure is now approved by Health Canada for snoring and mild sleep apnea. Although this is a new procedure to Canada, worldwide over 30,000 people have received pillar implants.  It involves a one-time insertion of three polyester implants into the soft palate done in the office under local anaesthesia.  The procedure takes about 20 minutes and normal activities may be resumed at once.  The post-operative pain and swelling is mild and much better than any other snoring procedure.  Patients can go back to work immediately after the procedure.

Patients report a noticeable, lasting reduction in snoring within 2 months.  Studies on snoring show an 80 to 90% bed partner satisfaction. Although there is often residual snoring, it should not bother patients or their bedpartners.  At one year, there is a relapse rate of about 11%. 

The most reliable study on the procedure was reported by Dr. Friedman at the annual meeting for Ear, Nose, and Throat surgery (2006).  This study was a double-blinded placebo controlled trial (the highest level of evidence) on 62 patients.  In this study, half the people had implants inserted and the other half had a 'fake' surgery where a needle was used but no implants were inserted.  Nobody knew if they had the implants or not.  They study showed a 50% reduction in snoring volume if implants were inserted and no change if there was no implants.

How the Pillar Procedure Works

The Pillar Procedure addresses the most common site responsible for snoring, the soft palate. During the Pillar Procedure, three tiny woven inserts are placed in the soft palate to help reduce the vibration that causes snoring. Once in place, the inserts add structural support to the soft palate. Over time, the body's natural tissue response stiffens the palate even more further reducing vibration (less snoring).

Pillar inserts are made of material used in implantable medical devices for more than 50 years. They are designed to be invisible and should not be felt or interfere with swallowing or speech. Most patients resume normal diet and activities the same day.