Posted by seattlebill on September 10, 2007 at 08:01:51:

In Reply to: Tongue Base Surgery posted by CONSIDERING MMA SURGERY on September 07, 2007 at 12:50:42:

Ok...I think I know what you're about to do.

It is the "Repose" procedure. A large stitch is passed through the anterior tongue base (below, not on top)...and it is pulled forward where it is attached to a titanium screw that is burrowed in your forward lower jaw under your teeth & gumline.

This is not "barbaric". Actually, it is alot more benign than some dental procedures. It is a reasonably benign and safe procedure...but, again...over time I believe that the suture stretches, or will stretch the tongue tissue that it passes through...and ANY benefit that it may have prompted initially will gradually be lost.

It may be a good temporizing measure, but it won't help significantly enough to cure your apnea...nor will it last. Nor, does it have longterm data.

It is safe. It is easy and reasonable free from major side-effects. And...it is a hundred times easier than an MMA. But, as for lasting benefits ????

And...as for annoying surgeons with questions ???
Well there is a balance. All of us can get annoyed if we feel that we are being pestered. But, if a surgeon isn't articulate, not forthcoming, and expects us to trust him/her implicitly...TOUGH !!! THEY DESERVE all the questions and scrutiny that we can muster for truly informed consent. WE ARE THE CONSUMERS...and have enormous rights to be properly informed. The old days of "do watcha gotta do doc" are gone with Marcus Welby !!!

Will it diminish their ability or enthusiasm to treat ? Maybe. But that's why we pick our battles. If you feel that he has that attitude, no matter what procedure he offers...find another surgeon to do the same procedure.

The Repose procedure has limited efficacy. But, it is yet another option to an MMA. I wouldn't expect much from it though.

Bill

Follow Ups:

---