Uvulopalate Pharyngoscopy

Definition

Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) is a procedure used to remove extra tissue in the throat to increase the airway. This allows air to move through the throat more easily while breathing and can reducing snoring. UPPP is sometimes used to treat snoring. It is rarely used and only considered in cases of very severe snoring when other treatments have failed.

Why it is done

• To treat snoring in people.
• To remove excess tissue in the nose, mouth, or throat that blocks the airway.
• It is done to people who do not stop snoring, even after loosing weight.
• To increase the width of the airway at the throat's opening.
• To improve soft palate’s movement and closure.

Procedure

This Surgery is performed under general anesthesia as it is done entirely through the mouth without any cut or incision, Hence the patient is first intubated during the procedure.

There are three stages involved in this surgery:

1. The uvula is removed first.
2. The Soft palate is modified.
3. The tissues around the Pharynx are modified.

The lower part of the soft palate and the uvula is trimmed (Even Tonsils and adenoids are removed if present). Sutures are placed to bring the raw tissue edges together. There will be upside down ‘U’ shaped stitches in the throat of patient. This Surgery will go on for about an hour.

Risks

• Severe acid reflux.
• Sleepiness.
• Swelling and pain.
• Infection and bleeding.
• A sore throat.
• Difficulty in Swallowing.
• Speech may be affected or voice frequency changes.
• Sleep apnea (Improper Breathing).
• Mucus in the throat.
• Regurgitation of fluids through the nose or mouth.
• Impaired sense of smell.

Result

• It takes about 3 weeks to recover.
• It will be very difficult to swallow during this time.