Sleep Apnea Procedures

Genioglossus Advancement

This procedure places tension on the tongue, limiting the posterior from shifting during sleep. The procedure starts with a small incision made inside the lower lip. Then, the surgeon moves away all the soft tissue to expose the lower jaw. Small rectangular cuts are then made in the lower jaw directly in front of the lower front teeth. This area attached to the genioglossus muscle is then moved forward and turned slightly. To hold this bone fragment in place, the surgeon puts in a titanium screw to immobilize it.