Short-term objective and long-term subjective results of laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty for obstructive sleep apnea

Objectives: To determine the short-term and longterm effects of laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) on symptoms and polysomnographic measures in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), Study Design: Prospective assessment of outcomes after LAUP in patients with OSAS, Methods: Fifty-nine patients with OSAS underwent LAUP, and 36 completed postoperative sleep studies. Questionnaires ranking snoring and apneic symptoms were completed by the patient and bed partner before LAUP, 6 to 12 weeks after LAUP, and in the long term (>2 years). Results: The apnea index decreased from 14.4 to 5.8 (P = .0012), respiratory disturbance index (RDI) decreased from 28.1 to 7.9 (P = .0046), and the mean lowest oxyhemoglobin saturation increased from 80.6% to 84.0% (P = .055), The RDI was reduced to 10 or less in 44.4% of patients. Subjective questionnaires showed statistically significant improvements in snoring, morning fatigue, morning headaches, daytime somnolence, and daytime psychometric measures. The symptomatic improvement persisted in the long term. Conclusions: LAUP is an effective method for the management of OSAS, We have demonstrated short-term improvement in polysomnographic measures and short-term and long-term improvement in subjective measures.