Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty as a treatment of obstructive sleep apnea precipitated by uvular prolapse

Two patients are discussed in whom obstructive sleep apnea was precipitated by uvular prolapse into the larynx and successfully treated by uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. Although tracheostomy has been the definitive treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty has also been used as an alternative surgical procedure. However, indications for its successful use have not been clearly defined. Our experience illustrates that the surgical approach to obstructive sleep apnea is dependent on a thorough diagnostic evaluation that includes a sleep history, head an neck examination, hypnopolygraphic recording and, if indicated, nocturnal fiberoptic endoscopy.