Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty: an assessment of a technique

The Kamami technique of laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty has recently been introduced into British practice as an office-based multistage procedure for the treatment of snoring and, in certain cases, for obstructive sleep apnoea. We have treated 50 patients with simple snoring, with a minimum follow-up of six months. Six-month telephone interview follow-up has assessed partner and patient satisfaction, as well as willingness to undergo the procedure again. We have found the procedure easy to perform with no serious intra-operative complications. Thirty-four (68 per cent) of patients' partners have been definitely satisfied with the results of treatment, with 11 (22 per cent) definitely unsatisfied. However, only 25 of these 34 satisfied patients (76 per cent) would be prepared to undergo the treatment again with post-operative pain and discomfort cited as the reason in those who would not. The failure rate doubled between one and six months post-operatively. There have been no serious complications but a 40 per cent minor side-effect rate is noted. These results are discussed in the context of previously reported results, with consideration of future strategies to improve outcome.