Radiofrequency Treatment
Radiofrequency treatment involves the application of radio waves into the tissue area that blocks the respiratory tract. The energy from the radio waves is converted into heat energy, controlled to not get too high. This moderate heat will not damage cells or tissue but will cause protein changes, resulting in the contraction of the targeted tissue. This principle is used to treat snoring, which is often caused by having larger or thicker than normal respiratory tract tissue, thereby opening up the airway, and eliminating the sound of snoring and sleep apnea.
The devices that create radio waves have been used to treat various diseases for more than 30 years, including treating arrhythmias, with no adverse effects found from using these devices. Therefore, it is safe to say that using this device to treat snoring will not cause any harm to the body.
Advantages of Radiofrequency Treatment
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Treats both snoring and sleep apnea
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Uses local anesthesia, no need for general anesthesia, thus no risks associated with general anesthesia
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Painless, may have minor throat irritation and nasal congestion depending on the treatment area
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Procedure takes about 30 minutes, and you can go home immediately afterwards, except when treating the base of the tongue, where observation for about 1 night might be necessary
- Effective rate is good, about 75 – 85%
Limitations of Radiofrequency Treatment
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Most patients need to undergo radiofrequency treatment about 2 times for the symptoms to improve, with each session spaced about 6 – 8 weeks apart
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The treatment results gradually improve, starting to feel better after about 4 weeks, and symptoms continually improve to a maximum effect at 6 – 8 weeks
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Besides treating snoring, this equipment can also be used to treat chronic sinusitis, which may be caused by allergies, or other conditions that do not respond well to medication
