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- Title
Radiofrequency reduction of the tongue base for obstructive sleep apnea
- Authors
Stewart, Alexander E.; Hunsaker, Darrell H.; Castro, Jerry; Bradshaw, David A.; Nordling, Olaf B.
- Abstract
Objectives: To determine if radiofrequency reduction of the base of tongue (BOT) utilizing the ENTec Coblator Plasma Surgery System at a specific setting is an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients clinically determined to have retroglossal obstruction. To quantify the BOT volumetric reduction utilizing MRI imaging and to correlate this to various clinical outcome measures. To identify any physical characteristic(s) that may have a high predictive value for patients that may benefit from BOT reduction.Methods: A prospective clinical trial of 50 consecutive patients with OSA and BOT obstruction was performed at a tertiary care medical center. Each patient received a single radiofrequency treatment to 6 BOT sites under general anesthesia with ∼10,200 joules delivered over 2 minutes (6 × 20seconds). Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) was also performed when retropalatal obstruction was present. Pre- and postoperative overnight polysomnograms, nasopharyngeal endoscopy, and MRI imaging of the upper airway, including volumetric measurement of the tongue, were performed. Careful and comprehensive pre- and postoperative evaluation also included photographic documentation and grading of the BOT, recording of Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) scores, body-mass index (BMI), modified Mallampati grade, tonsil size, and all complications. Multiple regression analysis was performed to determine variables predictive of the best candidates for BOT.Results: Patients clinically determined to have BOT obstruction on physical exam and endoscopy had statistically significant improved outcomes compared with the expected results from UPPP alone. No serious complications occurred.Conclusions: Radiofrequency reduction of the BOT is a safe, quick, and effective adjunct in the treatment of OSA for selected patients.
- Subjects
SLEEP apnea syndromes; RADIO frequency; SLEEP disorders; RADIO measurements
- Publication
Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, 2004, Vol 131, Issue 2, pP214
- ISSN
0194-5998
- Publication type
Abstract
- DOI
10.1016/j.otohns.2004.06.407