Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty: Evaluation of postoperative discomfort and the effectiveness of this procedure

Abstract

The Beckman Laser Institute and Medical Clinic of the University of California at Irvine began to offer laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty to treat snoring in October 1993. Current literature at that time advised that patients should expect mild or minimal pain after each treatment. Soon, it became apparent that those instructions needed modifying as most of the patients complained of severe pain. Patient surveys were developed to evaluate postoperative pain, pain management, the rate of improvement after each treatment, and the success or failure of the procedure to reduce their snoring. Severity of pain reported by patients declined. A combination of two primary factors reduced pain reported: 1) improved patient education regarding expected outcomes and pain management and 2) addition of anti-inflammatory medications.