[The efficacy of laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea].

OBJECTIVES

We evaluated the efficacy of laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty in the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty was performed in 34 patients (30 males, 4 females; mean age 45.7 years; range 17 to 70 years) with simple snoring and mild OSAS. The patients were evaluated preoperatively and in the first and sixth months postoperatively with the use of the Epworth sleepiness scale, polysomnography, and snoring scores. A questionnaire was administered to assess patient satisfaction.

RESULTS

All patients had decreased snoring. The quality of sleep increased in 79%. The clinical improvement seen in the first month continued through the sixth postoperative month. Satisfaction rates for the patients and their families were 88% and 85%, respectively. Significant decreases were found in the Epworth sleepiness scale (p=0.000) and visual snoring scores (p<0.001). In addition, postoperative desaturation indices decreased and minimal desaturation levels increased. However, no significant decreases occurred in the apnea/hypopnea index. No complications were encountered during and after operation.

CONCLUSION

Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty has high efficacy in the treatment of snoring and mild OSAS, with such additional advantages as ease, low complication rate, and no need for hospitalization.