Abstract
Objective: Evaluate the need for multiple sessions of soft palate radiofrequency (RF) to treat snoring.
Method: Retrospective study of patients with simple snoring or mild sleep apnea treated with RF. Efficacy on snoring and RF tolerance were compared in 3 protocols consisting of 1 or 2 RF sessions combined with an uvulectomy, performed during the first or second RF session or alone during a third session.
Results: A total of 97 patients were included. Mean age, body mass index (BMI), and apnea hypopnea index (AHI) respectively were 53.2 ± 10.1 years, 25 ± 3.9 Kg/m2 and 10.8 ± 9.1. The 2 groups were comparable in terms of age, BMI, AHI and preoperative snoring score on the visual analog scale. Postoperative snoring score was comparable among the 3 groups (P = .77). Tolerance was poorer when uvulectomy was performed. It was more painful when it was performed during the first session compared with the second session or third session.
Conclusion: Soft palate radiofrequency can be effective in one session but induces greater pain.
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