Tracheostomy for sleep apnea is a surgery for severe sleep problems.
A tracheostomy is mostly effective in treating sleep apnea that is caused by blockage of the upper airway.
If you suffer from severe sleep apnea, then probably a tracheostomy would be the best way to go if other treatments have failed, and other forms of surgery for the condition are not appropriate.
Tracheostomy is sometimes used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This surgery involves the creation of a permanent opening in the neck to the windpipe (trachea). The surgeon then puts a tube into the opening to let air in.
During the day,a valve keeps the opening of the tube closed and this will allow you to speak and breathe normally. But during the night, the valve is opened so that air can go around the blockage in your throat and into your lungs while you sleep.
Before considering such a surgery it is good for you to know that the time needed for the opening of the Tracheostomy to heal varies. The worst part is usually over within a week. However, it takes about six months to a year to really heal up good. Fortunately, your breathing will not be affected, or at least not much There are also a few risk associated with it,such as:
The formation of scar tissue at the opening, which can affect how your neck looks.
Difficulty to speak.
Bleeding and greater risk of infection.
The risk of lung infections may increase.
Emotional problems like change in self-image and depression.
Severe sleep apnea sufferers who are overweight have more long-term problems after a tracheostomy than other people who have the procedure. For those who are very overweight people, the surgeon must take greater care during the procedure to keep the opening from being blocked by fatty neck tissues.
Taking proper care of your tracheostomy is very important. It is important to Keep the valve closed during the day so that you can talk and breathe normally. Inform your doctor right away if you notice signs of infection (redness, swelling, or drainage) at the site of your tracheostomy. Talk with your doctor or surgeon, if you have concerns or questions about your tracheostomy.
Tracheostomy though effective in the treatment of severe obstructive sleep apnea is not generally used to treat this type of sleep disorder because other treatments are effective in most people.
