Treatment of post-adenotonsillectomy velopharyngeal stenosis with bivalved uvular flaps.

OBJECTIVE

Velopharyngeal stenosis (VS) is a rare devastating complication of adenotonsillectomy that causes obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Its treatment is challenging and has a high recurrence rate. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a bivalved uvular flap technique with topical application of mitomycin C for treatment of this problem.

STUDY

DESIGN

Case series.

METHODS

Fourteen children with VS after adenotonsillectomy were treated with a bivalved uvular flap technique with application of mitomycin C after release of the adhesions and removal of scar tissue. Preoperative and postoperative evaluation of patients were performed. Flexible nasopharyngoscopy was used to assess the patency of the velopharynx, and apnea/hypopnea (A/H) index and minimum O2 saturation were measured before and after surgery.

RESULTS

Adequate patent airway was obtained in all patients as seen by oropharyngeal examination and flexible nasopharyngoscopy. Additionally, significant improvement in A/H index and minimum O2 saturation were achieved postoperatively.

CONCLUSION

The bivalved uvular flap technique with topical application of mitomycin C after removal of scar tissue is an effective treatment for VS that may follow adenotonsillectomy in children.