[Coblation-channelling for the tongue].

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Sleep Medicine
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Tongue hypertrophy is a significant factor in severe obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).
• Current treatments may have limitations, necessitating novel approaches for tongue size reduction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Coblation-channelling for the tongue (CCT) in patients with OSAHS and tongue hypertrophy.
• To assess the impact of CCT on retrolingual space and tongue size.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 31 patients with severe OSAHS and Friedman stage II or N tongue hypertrophy underwent CCT.
• CCT was performed in conjunction with other procedures, including nasal septum surgery and coblation of inferior turbinates.
• Specific vertical and tilted channelling techniques were employed in the tongue base and body.

Main Results:

• Postoperative MRI demonstrated expansion of the retrolingual space.
• Tongue size decreased from preoperative stage III/IV to postoperative stage I/II.
• Minor intraoperative bleeding occurred in two patients, managed with compression; no major complications like paralysis or hematoma were observed.

Conclusions:

• Coblation-channelling for the tongue (CCT) is a safe, effective, and minimally invasive treatment for tongue hypertrophy in OSAHS.
• CCT offers a promising therapeutic option for improving airway patency in selected patients.