Carbon Dioxide Laser-Assisted Stiffening for Primary Epiglottic Collapse: A Preliminary Experience

We present a modification of the traditional Epiglottis Stiffening Operation technique for the management of primary epiglottic collapse in OSA, introducing carbon dioxide (CO₂) laser application to promote anterior repositioning of the epiglottis. The use of laser yielded promising improvements in polysomnographic parameters compared to baseline and allowed for modulable thermal effects on target tissues by adjusting power, spot size, and exposure time, thereby reducing the risk of cartilage injury from excessive collateral heat.