Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) significantly impairs the quality of life for those affected, disrupting sleep and causing various health issues. Conventional treatments such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines or oral appliances are effective in managing OSA, but can be inconvenient for some patients, especially children. Such discomfort often results in non-compliance, hindering the success of the treatment. However, arising as a viable alternative is Fotona's NightLase® therapy, a non-invasive procedure that uses gentle laser energy to tighten and tone tissues in the throat. After a number of sessions, this treatment aims to reduce the severity of snoring and improve airflow during sleep. Here, we’ll discuss the benefits of Fotona's NightLase® therapy compared to conventional OSA treatments, highlighting its efficacy, comfort, and potential to enhance quality of life for OSA patients.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children
Obstructive Sleep Apnea in children is a concerning condition characterized by repeated episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing patterns. Several factors contribute to the development of OSA in children. Altered craniofacial anatomy, such as a smaller-than-normal upper airway, high-arched hard palate, or dependent soft palate, can predispose children to OSA. Moreover, reduced oropharyngeal function, where the muscles in the throat fail to adequately support the airway during sleep, is another common cause. Excessive weight gain and obesity are also significant risk factors for OSA in children, as excess fat tissue can compress the airway and make it more prone to collapse during sleep. Finally, tonsillar or adenoidal hypertrophy, where the tonsils or adenoids become enlarged, can obstruct airflow and contribute to OSA symptoms. In school-aged children, OSA often presents with complaints of snoring or other sounds like snorting or gasping during sleep. Additionally, children with OSA may exhibit the following neurobehavioral symptoms:
- Inattention
- Hyperactivity
- Impulsivity
- Irritability
Traditional OSA Treatments
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy
Continuous positive airway pressure therapy is one of the most common and effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth during sleep, which delivers a continuous flow of air at a pressure level high enough to keep the airway open. CPAP therapy prevents the collapse of the upper airway and maintains uninterrupted breathing throughout the night.
Oral Appliance Therapy
Oral appliance therapy is another treatment option for OSA, particularly for patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea or those who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy. They’re custom-made devices are worn in the mouth during sleep to reposition the lower jaw and tongue, thereby keeping the airway open and reducing the frequency of breathing pauses and snoring.
Surgery
Surgical intervention may be considered for OSA patients who have anatomical abnormalities contributing to airway obstruction, such as:
- Enlarged tonsils
- Nasal polyps
- Enlarged adenoids
These surgeries aim to enlarge the airway space or reposition tissues to prevent obstruction during sleep.
Weight Loss and Lifestyle Modifications
For individuals with OSA who are overweight or obese, weight loss and lifestyle modifications are essential components of treatment. Adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise routine, and lifestyle changes aimed at weight reduction greatly improve OSA severity and overall health outcomes.
What is NightLase® Therapy?
NightLase® therapy by Fotona is an FDA-approved laser treatment designed to improve sleep quality by reducing the effects of snoring. During the procedure, a professional uses a laser that penetrates deeply into the skin and targets the mucosa tissue in the throat. The light creates a thermal effect, increasing the temperature of the membrane without causing damage to the skin's surface. The heat generated stimulates collagen contraction, tightening the tissues to prevent them from over-relaxing and obstructing the airway during sleep. A complete NightLase® therapy regimen typically comprises three separate treatment sessions over a two-month period. Clinical studies have demonstrated that the results of the treatment can last up to a year, and the therapy can be repeated as needed to maintain its effectiveness.
Benefits of NightLase® Therapy
Safe Treatment Approach
NightLase® utilizes Fotona's patented laser modality, which optimizes the length of laser pulses to ensure safe penetration of heat into the oral mucosa tissue.
Patient-Friendly Procedure
NightLase® offers a patient-friendly treatment option, eliminating the need for devices or surgery, as well as avoiding the use of chemicals. During the procedure, individuals may experience a warm sensation in the throat, but no pain or discomfort. Most patients also report minimal side effects, such as an occasional mild sore throat or dry mouth.
Effective Results
When administered by professionals, NightLase® demonstrates a high success rate in positively impacting sleep patterns. Furthermore, the Fotona laser systems utilized in NightLase® therapy have received clearance for various ear, nose, and throat (ENT) procedures, including:
- Intra-oral Soft Tissue Ablation: It refers to the removal or destruction of excess tissue in the oral cavity using laser energy. It’s useful in cases where soft tissue obstruction contributes to airway narrowing and obstructive sleep apnea.
- Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP): LAUP is a surgical procedure where laser energy is used to reshape and stiffen the tissues in the throat, including the uvula and soft palate, to reduce snoring and alleviate OSA symptoms.
Learn If NightLase® is a Proper OSA Treatment for You
For personalized consultation regarding the suitability of NightLase® therapy for you or your children's sleep apnea symptoms, contact Sunrise Orthodontics and Airway and Sleep Group. Our team will assess your condition and provide expert guidance on the most appropriate treatment options. Contact us today for more information.
