Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a chronic sleep disorder where patients stop breathing while asleep. During sleep, patients awake suddenly, often grasping for breath. This is caused by a clogged airway that can be due to large tonsils or tissue in the throat that has become enlarged.

Many patients get relief by wearing a facemask that is connected via a tube to a device that pumps continual air into their nose and mouth while they sleep. The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine solves sleep apnea issues in about half of the cases.

Sleep Apnea and Trans Oral Robotic Surgery (TORS)

Some patients – typically those who are younger, thinner and have confirmed tongue base enlargement that is causing blockage – can benefit from Trans Oral Robotic Surgery (TORS). The surgery, which is done through the mouth, involves removing the tonsils and any excess tongue base tissue that may rest on the throat.

Learn What to Expect from Trans Oral Robotic Surgery

WakeMed has board-certified ENT-Head & Neck surgeons on staff who perform minimally invasive, corrective procedures. Find the WakeMed ENT-Head & Neck surgeon by visiting our Find a Doctor module and searching for ENT – Head & Neck surgeons.