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Dissection using ultrasonic aspiration is characterized by its unique tendency to spare fibrous and vascular structures during removal of parenchymal lesions. This preliminary study was undertaken to evaluate the feasibility and efficiency of tonsillectomy using the ultrasonic aspirator. Tonsillectomy was performed on 23 patients using the ultrasonic aspirator. Pericapsular removal of the tonsil was easily accomplished with complete preservation of the tonsillar pillars and minimal peritonsillar trauma. The ability to identify significant vasculature before transection, and the constant aspiration integrated into the ultrasonic aspirator allowed excellent visualization of the operative field at all times. No postoperative complications were noted and recovery was typical for tonsillectomy patients. The ultrasonic aspirator may increase the efficiency and margin of safety of tonsillectomy.

Single-stage outpatient treatment of snoring with snare dissection uvulopalatoplasty (UPP) has been developed and found to be safe and effective. Single-stage snare dissection UPP (SUPP) was performed on 25 habitual loud snorers with readily available instrumentation in an ambulatory setting. Fourteen had associated septoplasty. When only SUPP was performed, local and topical anesthesia and minimal oral premedication were used in most cases. No significant immediate or delayed bleeding occurred. Postoperative discomfort persisted for 3 to 12 days and required only oral analgesics. No postoperative complications occurred. Ninety-one percent of patients reported satisfactory reduction or elimination of snoring after surgery. Preoperative and postoperative acoustic analysis of sleeping respiration (SNAP testing) was used to document the effects of SUPP in eight patients. SUPP is a safe, cost-effective method of treating patients with habitual snoring.

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