Mandibular & Maxillary Osteotomy (Genioglossus Advancement)

This is designed to place tension on the tongue and improve the airway behind the back of the tongue during sleep. The genioglossus is the main tongue muscle. During sleep, this muscle relaxes and often allows the tongue to fall backwards into the airway. This muscle attaches to the inside of your lower jaw to a tiny projection of bone the size of your little fingernail. If a segment of bone containing this muscle is pulled forward and stabilized, it can stabilize the airway space behind the tongue.

This procedure does not move the teeth or the jaw and can be done in some cases without the need for general anesthetic.

• Riley R, Powell N, Guilleminault C: Inferior sagittal osteotomy of the mandible with hyoid myotomy-suspension: A new procedure for obstructive sleep apnea. Otolaryngol Head and Neck Surg 1986;94:589-593

For a detailed treatment rationale, indications and outcomes, continue to MANAGEMENT OF SLEEP-DISORDERED BREATHING