Diode laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty using palisade technique

Introduction. The patency of the lower part of the upper respiratory tract depends on the muscle tone of pharynx, soft palate and tongue muscles. The consequence of the lowered tone of these muscles is recurrent total or partial narrowing of the airways. In this case, the turbulent airflow causes soft tissue vibration, which is heard as snoring. Material and Methods. The study included 34 patients: 27 men and 7 women. Carbon dioxide diode laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty was employed. The diode laser with a wavelength of 810 mm, power of 5 W, and pulse length of 4 seconds was used. Before the procedure, all the patients underwent laryngological assessment. Medical history of the patients was also collected. In addition, the patients completed 2 questionnaires: a sleep disorder screening questionnaire and Ephworth Sleepiness Scale. Moreover, a 3D CT scan and acoustic rhinometry were performed. All the tests were repeated 3 months after the procedure. Results. The procedure was performed in 34 patients. Complete clinical response was observed in 21 cases, and a partial response was seen in 13 cases. There were no patients in the study group who had not experienced at least a partial improvement of symptoms. None of the patients reported any complications. Conclusions. Good clinical outcome was obtained in all the patients after obtaining palatal stiffening, which contributed to the resolution of symptoms. The advantages of diode laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty using palisade technique include the safety of the procedure, minimal invasiveness, short healing time, and a low risk of complications. The procedure is performed on an out-patient basis under local anesthesia.