Eighteen patients (5 women and 13 men) completed the study. The rest could not tolerate being strapped into the Positioner. Of those participating, 61% demonstrated a decrease of AHI to<10 using the Positioner. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) decreased from a mean of 12.3 to 10.2. Half of the patients snored more frequently with the Positioner. The evaluation of comfort showed that minor adjustments are desirable.
The objective of the study was to evaluate short-and long-term effects of radiofrequency treatment of the soft palate on snoring. Twenty-nine patients with habitual snoring were studied prospectively and treated up to four times at 4-6 week intervals with an Ellman Surgitrone ®. Electromyography (EMG) of m. palatoglossus was performed in ten patients. Patients and partners evaluated snoring, sleep quality and daytime sleepiness 1 week preoperatively, 6 months and 3-4 years postoperatively. Snoring was reduced postoperatively (P < 0.0001). Sleep time increased, daytime sleepiness was reduced, and the partners slept better after 6 months. However, 3-4 years postoperatively only 25% of patients were satisfied. Another 25% had received additional treatment. EMG was normal in 6/10 patients preoperatively. They all continued to snore postoperatively. Four patients had pathological EMGs; three were responders. In conclusion, radiofrequency treatment for snoring may lead to long-term improvement in one out of four cases. Pre-evaluation with EMG may predict the outcome.
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