Single-session radiofrequency tongue base reduction combined with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of single-session radiofrequency tongue base reduction (RTBR) combined with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Sixty-six patients with multilevel obstruction underwent single-session RTBR combined with UPPP. Snoring, Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) and polysomnography were used to assess outcome before and 6 months after treatment. Sixty-six patients completed this study. Snoring level significantly decreased from 8.0 to 4.3. The mean ESS score significantly decreased from 11.4 to 7.5. The mean apnea–hypopnea index decreased significantly from 22.9 to 13.9. The overall success rate of the single-session RTBR combined with UPPP was 53.6%. Postoperative AHI in 50% of patients was normalized (AHI < 5). The success rates for patients with mild, moderate and severe OSAS were 62.5, 46.2 and 57.1%, respectively. There were two adverse effects, one ulceration of the tongue base and one transient taste change. Single-session RTBR combined with UPPP is an effective and safe treatment for OSAS patients with multilevel obstruction. It could be considered as first treatment for OSAS patients with multilevel obstruction, independent of the severity of OSAS.