The Efficacy of Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Abstract

Background : Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty(UPPP) is a widely used as a first-line therapy for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome(OSAS). However, UPPP is only effective in less than 50% of patients with OSAS. We analyzed the efficacy of UPPP in OSAS using subjective criteria. Methods : We included 19 consecutive patients with OSAS who underwent UPPP. Postoperative status was surveyed by telephone contact. Surgical failure was defined on the basis of subjective symptoms related with OSAS, such as snoring, observed apnea, unrefreshed sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Results : Surgical failure was observed in 14(73.68%) patients, even though postoperative BMI was significantly lower than preoperative BMI(p<0.05). Conclusions : UPPP was not effective for treating OSAS, at least in the respect of subjective symptoms.

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty May Reduce the Incidence of Dementia Caused by Obstructive Sleep Apnea: National Insurance Service Survey 2007–2014

“…Generally, surgery for OSA is more likely to involve younger, healthier, and more affluent patients because of the risks of anesthesia, complications, and costs of surgery. 18 In this study, the UPPP group was younger by approximately 3 years, had a slightly higher income level, and had a lower rate of dyslipidemia, ischemic heart disease, and cancer than the no-surgery group. Therefore, rather than a clear surgical effect, the reason for the low incidence of dementia in the UPPP group may be that patients in that group were younger and healthier than patients in the comparison groups.…”

“…18 Although it is not known with certainty, we assumed that the cost of surgery is low (approximately $700) and that many Koreans are reluctant to wear the machine in the long term. 18 Approximately 3,000 patients are prescribed CPAP annually and its adherence rate is very low. 19 Even fewer patients are prescribed MAD.…”

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty reduces the incidence of depression caused by obstructive sleep apnea

“…Furthermore, we did not know how many patients with OSA who did not undergo UPPP (the no surgery group) were offered alternative treatment such as CPAP or a mandibular advancing device (MAD) . In Korea, UPPP is the preferred treatment of OSA rather than CPAP or MAD . Approximately 3 thousand patients are prescribed CPAP annually and its adherence rate is very low .…”

“…13 In Korea, UPPP is the preferred treatment of OSA rather than CPAP or MAD. 23 Approximately 3 thousand patients are prescribed CPAP annually and its adherence rate is very low. 16 Even fewer patients are prescribed MAD.…”