Abstract:

Objective   To discuss the method and effects of uvula-preserving uvulopalatopharyngoplasty  with two incisions under local anesthesia in the treatment of moderate OSAHS caused by large tonsils. Methods   Thirty-nine patients were treated by uvula-preserving uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with two incisions under local anesthesia. Two incisions meant that there was one incision at each side  and the incisions of tonsillectomy would unite with the reversed “U” incision on the soft palate . So the time could be saved and the difficulties of the operation could be reduced. During the postoperative follow-up, the patients’ symptoms, pharyngeal cavity and PSG were monitered. Results   The symptoms of all the patients in the group were improved  obviously. Compared with those before the treatment, AHI and the lowest SaO2 showed significant difference in 6 months and 12 months. Later.  33 cases were cured，including 4 excellence, 1 valid， and 1 invalid case 6 months later. Twelve months later, there were 32  cured cases， including 4 excellence, 2 valid, and 1 invalid cases. The total efficiency was 97.4%. No complications occurred. Conclusion   For the patients who suffer from moderate OSAHS caused by large tonsils, this method demonstrates lots of advantages such as safe procedure， fast recovery， good curative effect， and lowered medical cost.

Key words: Obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome, Local anesthesia, Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, Large tonsils, Two incisions