[Analysis of results of pharyngotomy in the surgical treatment of sleep apnea syndrome. Apropos of 150 cases]

Abstract

The indications and limitations of simple veloamygdalotomy as surgical cure for sleep apnoea were analyzed on the basis of results obtained in the first 150 cases treated prospectively by pharyngotomy. Clinical and polysomnographic results were analyzed as possible factors predicting success or failure. With a success rate of 80%, pharyngotomy is a simple and effective treatment for patients with minor forms of sleep apnoea (initial apnoea/hypopnoea index < 20) and no severe obesity. It appears unreasonable to propose isolated pharyngotomy if the initial index is < 30 since the success rate in the cases is only 27%. Nasal repermeation does not improve overall results significantly. The lack of patient compliance to diagnostic and therapeutic modalities is an unavoidable reality due to human, social and economic implications.