[Effectiveness of the partial velopalatine++ resection in obstructive apnea syndrome during sleep. Experience with 57 patients].

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to determine the result of partial resection of the soft palate (SPR) as a treatment of the obstructive apnea syndrome during sleep (OASS).

METHODS

Fifty-seven patients diagnosed of OASS treated with SPR were studied. The clinical and polysomnographic results prior to surgery and after 6 months were compared.

RESULTS

Prior to SPR the 57 patients had a mean index of apnea plus hypopnea per hour of 57 (IAH) and following surgery the same was of 19.2 (p < 0.0001). IAH improved more than 50% in 42 patients (74%), 30 of whom were cured (IAH < or = 10). Daily hypersomnia and snoring disappeared in 58% of the patients and decreased in intensity in most of the remaining cases. The secondary effects observed following SPR were: rhinolalia, nasal fluid reflux, and oropharyngeal disturbances, being present in 32 patients (56%) and permanent, although slight, in only 13 (23%).

CONCLUSIONS

Soft palate resection is a good surgical procedure for therapy of obstructive apnea during sleep, with only slight secondary effects.