Pharyngeal suspension suture with repose bone screw for obstructive sleep apnea.

OBJECTIVE

Multilevel surgery for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA) may improve success. This study's goal is to prospectively evaluate the feasibility and short-term subjective effectiveness of a new tongue-suspension technique.

METHODS

A multicenter nonrandomized open enrollment trial used the Repose device to treat tongue obstruction in 39 snoring and OSA patients. Outcomes include 1- and 2-month subjective reports of general health, snoring, and sleep.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients completed 1 month and 19 completed 2 months of follow-up. In OSA patients, activity level, energy/fatigue, and sleepiness improved. Two-month outcomes were less (activity level, energy/fatigue, and sleepiness). Fewer changes were observed in snorers than in OSA patients. There were 6 complications (18%), including sialadenitis (4), gastrointestinal bleeding (1), and dehydration (1) after the procedure.

CONCLUSION

A pharyngeal suspension suture changes subjective outcomes. Improvement is incomplete. The procedure is nonexcisional, but significant complications may occur. Further evaluation is required to demonstrate effectiveness.