Sleep Apnea-Curable by surgury?

  In April of 1996 I had a heart attack. It was determined that the only cure
  was to have a transplant. I received a transplant at CCF in Feb.1997. During
  the last half of 1996, I used to wake up gasping for breath and I snored
  very loudly, according to my daughter. During the last half of 1997, after
  the transplant, I used to get so sleepy, I would fall asleep at the computer
  at 9 AM, after what I thought was a good nights sleep. I continued to have
  difficulty staying awake, especially when driving at night. I then heard
  an advertisement on the radio about the sleep apnea symtoms (symptoms). I went to the
  local neurolgists here and they did a sleep study on me and determined that
  I had sleep apnea. I had 48 Obstructive apneas, 10 central apneas, 154
  mixed apneas, and 130 hypopneas. The O2 saturation got to 67% lowest. Average
  length of events was 36, etc.  Then I had a sleep study with a CPAP and my condition
  improved dramatically. The Neurologist said there was not really a surgical
  cure for the problem and I would have to use the CPAP for the rest of my
  life... Well, after using it for 9 months, I REALLY would like to look into
  a cure.  Is there anything.  As it is, I can't take a nap without the machine
  or I wake up gasping for air...  I will be at the Clinic for a biopsy on
  October 30 and if there is some possibility, I would like to arrange an
  appointment. I could bring the before and after studies with me. Please advise.
  Thanks.... You all are the best !
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Thanks for your question.  It always in the best interest of patients to
initially attempt conservative measures for sleep apnea (such as CPAP),
particularly if a major portion of the events are a result of mechanical/
airway problems (obstructive apnea).  Your next logical step is probably
as evaluation by a ENT (ear-nose-throat) surgeon to address the question of
adequacy for surgery (is this what the biopsy is for???).  The specific
surgical options should really be discussed between you and the ENT surgeon.
I hope this information is helpful.  Best of luck.
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only.
Please consult your doctor regarding diagnostic and treatment options.