What is a Hyoid Suspension?

Sometimes, even after other surgical procedures have been tried, sleep apnea is not adequately treated.  In cases like this, a hyoid suspension may be needed to further improve the airway.  The hyoid bone is located in the neck just above the thyroid cartilage.  Many important muscles are attached to the hyoid and they work to keep the airway open during sleep.  By moving the hyoid bone forward and securing it to the thyroid cartilage, the airway is open even more, especially during sleep.

            1.  Hyoid         2.  Thyroid cartilage

What will happen the day of the surgery?

You will arrive at the hospital and the staff will help get you ready for the surgery.  After the surgery is over, you will be taken to the recovery room for about an hour, until you are awake from the anesthesia.  Then you will be taken to your room.  Usually you will be discharged the next day if you are drinking all right and doing well.

How will I feel after the surgery?

The number of procedures that you have done at once will contribute to how uncomfortable you are.  If you have a UPPP, a GGA and a tonsillectomy, you will be more uncomfortable than if just one procedure is done.  If you have any of  these other procedures, you will receive information of how to care for yourself at home. However, everyone responds differently.  Some people are much more comfortable than others.  Discomfort can be minimized by closely following your post-op instructions.  You can expect the area of the surgery to look and feel swollen.  You will have a bulky dressing on that will be removed in the office the day you come home from the hospital.

How can I take care of myself after the surgery?

• You may eat a regular diet.
• After the bulky dressing is removed, you may shower if the wound is covered with a Tegaderm dressing.  Check with the Doctor or Nurse Practitioner first.  Avoid soaking the area.  Call the office if the dressing comes off.
• Keep the head of the bed up to rest and sleep until told otherwise by your Doctor or the Nurse Practitioner.
• Avoid activities that move your neck from side to side or extremely up and down.  Try to keep a neutral head position.
• You will be given a prescription pain medication.  Take it regularly and don’t wait until the pain is worse.
• Avoid aerobic and strenuous activity until your Doctor or Nurse Practitioner tells you otherwise.  You should expect to be out of work for 2 weeks.
• You will follow up in the office one week after your first visit to have the stitches out and Steri-Strips applied.  These will help the wound heal properly.
• Call the office immediately if you have increased swelling, drainage from the incision, redness, fever above 101 degrees, chills, vomiting or any other questions or concerns.

Form 116 Rev 11/05