Novel approaches to primary snoring.

Snoring is a widespread disorder, mostly affecting middle-aged men. Snoring is not harmful in itself, but may lead to social impairment. Therefore, snorers often seek for medical advice and effective treatment. Sleep studies are mandatory especially when surgical procedures are intended. Due to the lack of reliable objective snoring analysis, the evaluation by the bed partners is the most relevant criteria in estimating treatment success. Body weight and behaviour patterns are crucial in the treatment of snoring. Furthermore, oral appliances and other implements may be beneficial. Various kinds of surgical procedures are available, soft palate techniques being the most widespread. Minimally invasive procedures are safe and effective in the majority of patients. Temperature controlled radiofrequency tissue ablation offers much potential in the treatment of primary snoring. Furthermore, a system is currently being developed which is supposed to stabilise the soft palate with the help of implants.