Uvulopalatopharyngoglossoplasty (UPPGP) in the treatment of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

Out-patient polysomnography was conducted prior to surgery in 26 male, obstructive sleep apnea patients. Resection of lateral aspects of the tongue base and conservation of the proximal part of the uvula muscle were carried out in addition to conventional palatopharyngoplasty. At a minimum of 6 months after surgery, the patients were given a questionnaire for assessment of treatment. At the same time, polysomnography was repeated for objective evaluation of the results of surgery. More than 90% of the patients were satisfied with the outcome of treatment. The objective results by means of apnea index and oxygen desaturation index matched the patients' personal experiences, which is not usual in this kind of treatment. Sixty-seven percent of the obstructive sleep apnea patients achieved more than a 50% reduction in apnea index and oxygen desaturation index. No more side effects than for similar surgical intervention (PPP) were encountered. Safety and efficiency lead us to recommend this procedure as standard whenever oropharyngeal surgery is indicated.