Elimination of snoring

What is laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty

It is a surgical procedure to eliminate snoring. This procedure aims at an improved patency of the airways and deglutitive pathways, as well as at an elimination of the soft palate vibration during the sleep and of the collapse of soft tissues in the pharynx, if any, that cause snoring and apnoea. This procedure is often accompanied with tonsillectomy.

Who is a good candidate for the procedure

Snoring is a sound phenomenon occurring during the sleep as a result of the vibration of the soft palate. It is a social problem, unless it is accompanied by apnoea (paused breathing during sleep). The sleep apnoea syndrome also involves health risks (greater strain for the heart and blood circulation). Snoring may be one of the symptoms of the apnoea syndrome. Other symptoms may include headache, a feeling of a lack of sleep in the morning, excessive daytime sleepiness, memory disorders and high blood pressure.

Before the procedure

If you consider the elimination of snoring, it is always necessary to undergo a non-binding initial examination by an ENT specialist. Based on a detailed examination, he or she will decide whether the procedure is right for you, explain the surgery technique, the type of anaesthesia, as well as the possible risks associated with the surgery. During the consultation, you can ask any questions, in particular those related to the course of the surgery, as well as your expectations and concerns.

When making a binding appointment, you will be given and explained instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, as well as information regarding eating, drinking, smoking and taking or withdrawing from certain medications. Compliance with all these instructions is necessary and will facilitate a smooth procedure and seamless healing after the laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty.

How is laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty performed

At our Clinic, elimination of snoring usually takes place under local anaesthesia, or, if necessary, it can also be performed under general anaesthesia. The surgery involves the excision of the thinnest portions of the palatine arches, the soft palate and the uvula. At the GHC Clinic Prague, a CO2 laser is used to perform this surgery. It permits greater versatility of the procedure, improves the healing process and results in less postoperative pain in comparison with other soft palate surgery techniques.

After the procedure

After the surgery, your throat may feel sore and you may experience a foreign body sensation in your throat (like with tonsillitis). The pain usually lasts 2 to 7 days. To relieve the discomfort and speed up the healing process, sipping acrimony tea and taking painkillers are recommended. Early after the surgery, the snoring usually gets worse (swelling in the surgery area). An assessment of the effect is possible within 3 months of the uvulopalatoplasty. The estimated recovery time is about a week. Major physical strain should be avoided.