Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 24, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy DISE with Target Controlled Infusion TCI and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Tonsillectomy with Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Ulrich J Sommer1, Clemens Heiser, Constanze Gahleitner
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Sleep Disorders Center, University Hospital Mannheim, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University Hospital Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Mannheim Institute of Public Health, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Mannheim, Essen University Hospital-Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery.
Background:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a very common disorder (prevalence 2-7% in women, 7-14% in men). It impairs the quality of life and increases mortality. Conservative treatment with continuous positive airway pressure is highly effective, but patient compliance is variable. Surgical treatments are controversial, as only a few are supported by evidence from controlled clinical trials.
Methods:
Adult patients with OSA, CPAP intolerance, and oropharyngeal obstruction were included in the trial. All underwent polysomnography (PSG) and were randomly allotted to one of two groups. Patients in the treatment group underwent tonsillectomy with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (TE-UPPP) within one month. All patients had a follow-up PSG at three months, and all PSGs were evaluated in blinded fashion. The primary outcome variable was the apneahypopnea index (AHI) as determined by PSG. Other outcome variables were subjective symptoms (daytime sleepiness, quality of life), complications, and patient satisfaction.
Results:
42 patents were included in the trial (23 in the treatment group, 19 in the control group). The baseline AHI was 35.7 ± 19.4/hr in the control group and 33.7 ± 14.6/hr in the treatment group. The corresponding figures at 3 months were 28.6 ± 19.4/hr in the control group and 15.4 ± 14.1/hr in the treatment group (p = 0.036). The intervention also led to significant improvement in daytime sleepiness and in snoring, according to the patients' and their bed partners' assessment. 97% of the patients who underwent surgery were satisfied with the outcome. 65% of them needed no further treatment for OSA.
Conclusion:
TE-UPPP significantly improved apnea/hypopnea, daytime sleepiness, and snoring compared to control (i.e., no) treatment. It is a safe and effective treatment for OSA..
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Sleep Apnea
The condition is more prevalent among...
Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Tonsillitis II: Management
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

