Tracheostomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Surgery Overview

Tracheostomy is surgery that is sometimes used to treat obstructive sleep apnea, Opens dialog (OSA). It's used if you have severe sleep apnea, other treatments have failed, and other forms of surgery won't work for you.

In this surgery, the surgeon creates a permanent opening in the neck to the windpipe (trachea). The surgeon then puts a tube into the opening to let air in.

  • A valve keeps the opening of the tube closed during the day, which allows you to speak and breathe normally.
  • At night, you open the valve so that air can go around the blockage in your throat and into your lungs while you sleep.

Tracheostomy almost always cures sleep apnea that is caused by blockage of the upper airway.footnote 1

Related Videos

Information about Tracheostomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Current as of: October 27, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.