Radiofrequency Platoplasty for Snoring (Somnoplasty)

Radio frequency palatoplasty (somnoplasty) is an office-based procedure designed to improve or eliminate snoring in patients without a history of significant sleep apnea.

The postoperative pain is much less than with laser palatoplasty, or with traditional surgical palatoplasty. Usually over the counter analgesics (aspirin, Advil, Tylenol.) are sufficient.

Radio frequency palatoplasty usually requires 3 - 4 visits separated by a six-week period. Most patients can expect reduction in their snoring after the second or third visit. This procedure is designed to reduce the volume and length of the palate while also stiffening the vibratory surface of the palate, which causes snoring. No tissue is actually removed during the procedure, and this is why the postoperative pain is so minimal. This procedure takes approximately 15 minutes to perform at each session and generally pan be done anytime of the day as most patients return to work or to home with no postoperative problems after their visit.

Risks of the procedure are uncommon but include bleeding, infection, palatal perforation and nasal regurgitation. This procedure is not appropriate for people with significant sleep apnea, and it may be necessary to be evaluated for sleep apnea prior to considering this procedure. The success rate for significantly reducing snoring is approximately 80%. This procedure is usually not covered by insurance.

RADIOFREQUENCY SNORING TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS

1. Take medications as directed. Advil (Ibuprofen), or Tylenol may be taken for pain.
2. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure hydration and decrease pain.
3. May eat a regular diet. If throat pain occurs, avoid citrus fruits and spicy foods.
4. Dilute salt-water gargles may be helpful if throat pain develops.
5. Some swelling of the uvula and palate may occur causing snoring to worsen for several days after the treatment.
6. Call for bleeding or difficulty breathing.

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