MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Federal regulators have approved Medtronic's new labeling for its Pillar implants, which are used to treat snoring and sleep apnea, the company said Wednesday.
The medical device company said the new label indicates that physicians can implant up to five of the devices if they believe it will help the patient. The Pillar implants are used to stiffen the soft palate to reduce tissue vibration and collapse, which can block the upper airway and increase snoring or sleep apnea. Medtronic said using more implants may help patients with wider mouths and softer palate tissue.
The company said that the Food and Drug Administration has not approved the use of more than three Pillar implants for the treatment of mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. There have been no studies on that matter.
Shares of Medtronic Inc. lost 9 cents to $37.91 in morning trading.