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Globus sensation after laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty
1Department of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle 98195-6515, USA.
Purpose:
To determine the cause of globus sensation following laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP).
Materials And Methods:
Sixty consecutive LAUP patients were questioned regarding globus sensation. Palate sensation on globus patients was mapped and compared with asymptomatic LAUP control patients. Symptomatic patients were tested again 2 months later.
Results:
There was a 25% incidence of globus with 8% rated severe and 16% rated mild. The globus sensation corresponds to an insensate area of palate (P < .01). Resolution of the symptoms coincides with reemergence of sensation on the palate.
Conclusion:
Sensory dennervation of the central palate is a likely source of post-LAUP globus sensation. As sensation returns, symptoms abate. Palate surgery should be designed with this in mind. It is possible that undiagnosed globus patients may have areas of anesthetic pharynx.