Treatment Specialists
These physicians provide diagnosis and treatment for Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP): Carl F. Ehrlich, M.D.
Jay F. Piccirillo, M.D.
Margaret A. Ogden, M.D.
Stanley E. Thawley, M.D.
What is Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty?
The
Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) is an outpatient treatment for
snoring. The procedure was originally described in France where it was
first performed in 1990. The procedure was brought to the United States
where it has been shown to be a very safe and effective treatment for
snoring.
Is it a complicated procedure?
Laser
treatment is much like a visit to the dentist. The patient is treated
right in the doctor's office -- sitting upright and fully awake in a
comfortable chair. After local anesthesia (Lidocaine) is applied, the
last is used to remove the uvula and trim the soft palate, with the
treatment taking approximately 30 minutes. The procedure is done in one
session in over 80% of the cases.
What does the patient experience after surgery?
The
patient will experience a severe sore throat, especially while eating,
for seven to ten days. Speaking is generally not affected. Patients go
right back to their normal activity after the session. The biggest
advantage to treatment with the laser, however, is that it works.
Snoring is eliminated or significantly reduced in most patients after
one session. A second treatment may be necessary in 20% of patients.
Patients usually report a noticeable reduction in their snoring
immediately. Further improvement occurs with healing postoperatively.
How effective is this procedure?
The
procedure has been found to be quite effective at relieving snoring.
Despite this, some patients may subsequently develop obstructive sleep
apnea. Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include restless sleep,
daytime sleepiness, and irritability. Patients who develop these
symptoms must return for evaluation. Obstructive sleep apnea, left
untreated, can lead to medical complications including heart and lung
disease. Patients considering the LAUP procedure may require full
evaluation and follow up for medically significant breathing disorders
during sleep.