Ambulatory treatment of sleep apnea syndrome with CO 2 laser: laser-assisted UPPP (LAUP), results on 70 patients

Abstract

The pharyngeal airway obstruction during sleep in the Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) can be improved after treatment by LAUP (Laser Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty). This new technique, performed under local anesthesia, permits the snoring treatment without any hospitalization, or general anesthetic; like an ordinary dental visit. This is done by reducing the amount of tissue in the uvula, the velum, and the upper part of the posterior pillars. Our experience with the LAUP in Sleep Apnea Syndrome is described, from December 1988 to May 1994, in 70 patients. Among 62 patients classified as successful `responders', the respiratory disturbance index was reduced more than 50%. Among all the 70 patients: in 51.4 % of cases (36 patients), there's a healing of snoring and Sleep Apnea Syndrome. In 37.2% of cases (26 patients), there's an improvement reduction of length and number of apneas and a significant improvement in nocturnal oxygen saturation. 11.4% (8 patients), are relative failures, with always decrease of snoring, but still Sleep Apnea Syndrome, (with a higher B.M.I.). There were no important complications reported. Patients withstand it well and there's had a better tolerance of the C.P.A.P. in the cases of OSAS LRPP failures. Popularization of LAUP will require serious training of surgeon and further long-term studies.