Assessment of the pharynx by acoustic pharyngometry in normal subjects and obstructive sleep apnoea patients

This prospective controlled study included 40 middle aged subjects of both sexes divided into two groups: Group A included 20 normal subjects and group B included 20 patients suffering from snoring with or without obstructive sleep apnea. Both groups were investigated by acoustic pharyngometer, by which the cross sectional area of different segments of the pharynx was recorded and analyzed for the standardization of normal curve by standard operating procedure. Acoustic pharyngometry proved to be an easy method to assess the possible level[s] of obstruction

Radiofrequency palatal reduction versus LAUP as a treatment of snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea

In this study, 30 patients complaining of snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea were randomly distributed into two groups, 15 patients each. One group was subjected to laser assisted uvulopalatoplasty [LAUP] while the other to RF. The follow up of these patients revealed that LAUP is more effective than RF, whereas RF is more tolerable than LAUP. LAUP was proved to be an effective method in the treatment of snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea, while RF proved to be very safe and well-tolerated but needs further study to exactly evaluate its efficacy