The Pillar Palatal Implant System

The Pillar Procedure targets the most common cause of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)—the soft palate.

During the Pillar Procedure, three tiny woven implants are placed in the soft palate. Over time the implants, together with the body's natural fibrotic response, add structural support to and stiffen the soft palate. This structural support and stiffening reduce the tissue vibration that can cause snoring and the palatal tissue collapse that can obstruct the upper airway and cause obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Pillar implants are made of a material that has been used in implantable medical devices for more than 50 years. Patients cannot see or feel the Pillar implants, nor do they interfere with swallowing or speech. Many patients resume normal diet and activities the same day of the procedure.

What are the benefits of the Pillar Procedure?

The Pillar Procedure is a simple, effective treatment for chronic snoring and mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The Pillar Procedure can be performed in a single, brief visit to the physician's office or in combination with additional procedures to treat other areas of upper airway obstruction.

Clinical studies have shown that:

• Patients experienced a significant decrease in snoring intensity.
• Bed partner satisfaction with the reduction in snoring after the Pillar Procedure has been documented at 80% or higher.
• Approximately 80% of patients demonstrated a reduction in their AHI, and results were sustained at one year after the Pillar Procedure.
• Patients experienced less daytime sleepiness and significant improvements in lifestyle after the Pillar Procedure.

Once the snoring problem has been resolved, couples can share a bed again, enjoy a more restful sleep and live a healthier lifestyle.

Pillar Implants Work Over Time

Your body responds naturally to the Pillar implants causing tissue in-growth that:

• Anchors the implants
• Encapsulate and connects the implants
• Adds structual support and stiffens the palate
• Reduces tissue vibration and obstruction

How the Pillar Procedure Works

This informative 3D animation provides a simple, visual explanation of the causes of palatal OSA and snoring. The video makes it easy to see how the placement of three tiny implants helps correct the palatal vibration and collapse that can cause snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.