Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in Katy, TX
People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the tongue is sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and airflow stops. When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears, and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.
Repeated cycles of decreased oxygenation lead to very serious cardiovascular problems. Additionally, these individuals suffer from excessive daytime sleepiness, depression, and loss of concentration.
Some patients have obstructions that are less severe called Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). In either case, the individuals suffer many of the same symptoms.
The first step in treatment resides in recognition of the symptoms and seeking appropriate consultation. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons offer consultation and treatment options.
In addition to a detailed history, Drs. Wintersteen, Brock and Morris will assess the anatomic relationships in the maxillofacial region. With Cone Beam CT scan, they can ascertain the level of obstruction.. To confirm the amount of cardiovascular compromise and decreased oxygenation levels, a sleep study may be recommended to monitor an individual overnight.
In more complex cases, the bones of the upper and lower jaw may be repositioned to increase the size of the airway (orthognathic surgery). This procedure is done in the hospital under general anesthesia and requires a one to two day overnight stay in the hospital.
In the case of UARS, a functional septorhinoplasty may be performed to give a person less daytime somnolence as well as decrease resistance on their CPAP unit.
OSA is a very serious condition that needs careful attention and treatment. Most major medical plans offer coverage for diagnosis and treatment.
Meet Our Surgeons
Dr. Justin R. Brock
Dr. Brock performs all aspects of oral, maxillofacial and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Brock’s interests...
Dr. Christopher D. Morris
Christopher D. Morris DDS, MD, FACS is a board certified oral maxillofacial surgeon whose surgical...
Related Services
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the specialty of dentistry that includes the diagnosis, surgical, and adjunctive treatment of diseases, injuries, and defects involving both the functional and esthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillofacial region.
This comprehensive field of care also includes common procedures such as wisdom tooth extractions and dental implant placement, which help restore function, health, and aesthetics to the smile.
