Michigan Ear, Nose & Throat - Procedures
Procedures | FAQs | Staff
RESTORE (Pillar procedure)
The pillar procedure is a new procedure that treats both sleep apnea and snoring. Performed on an outpatient basis, this procedure consists of placing small implants in the soft palate at the back of the mouth. It works by strengthening and stiffening the area that blocks breathing during sleep. Most patients can return to work the same day but it depends on their comfort level.
NASAL SURGERY
Nasal surgery can be divided in two classes: those performed inside the nose and on the nose surface. Commonly performed together, these procedures can improve breathing, alleviate snoring or enhance the shape of the nose and relieve obstruction at the same time. These procedures, which are usually well tolerated, generally require the patient to take three to seven days off work or away from school. If no work is performed on the outside of the nose, there will be virtually no bruising or swelling. For external nasal work, bruising and swelling of the face usually disappears after one week.
SALIVARY GLAND SURGERY
Salivary gland surgery, which is performed most commonly for blocked salivary duct or tumor, is an outpatient procedure that requires partial or total removal of the salivary glands. After undergoing this procedure in an outpatient surgical center, the patient usually needs to take only one day off work.
TONSILLECTOMY WITH OR WITHOUT ADENOIDECTOMY
Tonsillectomy with or without Adenoidectomy is commonly performed for recurrent throat infections or obstructive breathing problems in adults and children. This is performed in an outpatient surgical center. The first week after surgery is quite difficult with respect to pain and discomfort. Pain medicine is given and the patient is allowed to eat or drink what is tolerated. Seven to ten days off school or work is adequate. A temporary voice change and reflux of swallowed liquids out of the nose are normal temporary problems that improve. Adenoidectomy alone allows a patient to feel nearly normal after only five days.
SINUS SURGERY
Sinus surgery is performed through the nose nearly 95 percent of the time. Scopes are commonly used for to correct recurrent sinus infections, polyps in the nose or sinuses or tumors, which need removal or a biopsy. A very small and soft sponge pack is inserted at the end of the procedure and is removed easily in one to three days. Usually one week is adequate for time off work but patients with desk jobs or those who do not do any physical labor can usually return in three to five days.
EAR TUBES
Placement of ear tubes helps reduce the number of ear infections. They are also used to drain fluid trapped in the ears for a long time, earlier if it creates hearing loss. Tubes are most commonly placed in children’s ears but may be used for adult patients, too. Patients can usually return to work or school the next day. The only precaution is that earplugs are recommended for swimming only. They are not necessary for showers or baths unless the patient dunks his or her head under water.
THYROID SURGERY
Thyroid surgery is most commonly performed for a mass in the thyroid gland, which is suspicious for cancer, and for a gland that is too large or functioning excessively. Thyroid surgery usually requires the patient to remain in the hospital after surgery for one night. The patient will continue to take antibiotics and pain medication after returning home. Depending on the amount of physical labor the job entails, return to work in one to two weeks is normal.
VOICE BOX SURGERY
Voice box surgery is used for many reasons, most commonly to remove small nodules or polyps from the surface to improve hoarseness. We also use techniques to strengthen weak voices due to vocal cord defects or paralysis. Voice box procedures are usually performed in an outpatient center but certain situations may warrant an overnight stay following surgery.