How well does a tonsillectomy cure sleep apnea?

I have sleep apnea and have a tonsillectomy scheduled for later this year. How well does this fix sleep apnea?

Tagged with: sleep • sleep apnea • tonsillectomy

Filed under: Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Dan1284 says:

May 31, 2009 at 2:26 pm

Tonsillectomies alone do not 'cure' sleep apnea. Surgical remedies for sleep apnea usually are for those patients that do not respond well to other treatments, usually surgery is a last resort.

The correct term for the surgery is called a Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, it removes parts or all of the uvula, soft palate, tonsils, adenoids, and pharynx. Its success rate is about 50%. Basically its a coin flip.

The tonsillectomy could work, only if its enlarged. Same goes with the other parts that I listed above. The enlarged tissue(s) tend to obstruct your airway when you sleep, especially when you lie on your back.

I would recommend getting a second opinion and see if your doctor would recommend a sleep study performed on you. Also check with your insurance if it is covered.

Usually, sleep apnea can be resolved with diet and treatment using a CPAP machine (Continous Positive Airway Pressure). It can significantly improve your sleep.

Good luck and have a good night's sleep!
Kakibo says:

May 31, 2009 at 2:26 pm

I do not think anything actually 'cures' a sleep apnea. I had a tonsillectomy yesterday, and i'm miserable. Be prepared for the pain!