Imaging studies
To understand the normal function of the soft palate, the company conducted dynamic MRI
studies. These studies illustrated the palate movements associated with swallowing and
phonation as well as simulated snoring. As shown in the following sequence, the palate is a
highly mobile airway structure.
Real-time imaging of the soft palate during a forced snore.
Three of the successive frames from this study are shown during the act of simulated
snoring. Each frame is separated in time by 1.2 seconds.
Palatal motion during the simulation of a snoring sound is characterized by extreme
bending of the soft palate. Relative to the hard palate, the soft palate undergoes an
approximate 120 degree central bend upwards and towards the hard palate. As a result, the
soft palate appears to elevate and fold on itself as the bending occurs. This bending is
initiated in proximity of the junction of the hard and soft palate. The palate is transformed from a relatively
straight, hanging appendage to an exaggerated hook-like appendage during the course of the
dynamic scans. These studies highlight the importance of a flexible design that provides support to address the
dramatic movement that can take place high in the palate.
Watch MRI video showing palatal motion with and without the Pillar Procedure.
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