Snoring--a simple surgical solution.

Abstract

In this paper a new palatal surgical technique for the treatment of snoring is described and evaluated. All 22 patients were severe snorers with no significant obstructive sleep apnoea, as confirmed by detailed sleep studies. The aim of the surgical technique was to eliminate the vibration of the soft palate and the posterior pillars which occurs during snoring. This was achieved under general anaesthetic by making a 1.5 cm vertical full thickness incision in the soft palate from the superior pole of the tonsil towards the pterygoid hamulus using monopolar cutting diathermy. Specifically designed daily pain questionnaires were completed by the patients during the first 2 post-operative weeks and the level of snoring was assessed by the patient's sleeping partner at 2, 6 and 12 weeks. The presence of any complications was also documented at these times. The results demonstrate that this surgical technique is effective, quick, simple and bloodless. The post-operative pain created is mild and quickly resolves. All patients experienced a dramatic diminution of their snoring and in 55% complete cessation was achieved.