Surgery for snoring

Abstract

Snoring is a common obnoxious disturbance in human society. Although considered a mere nuisance by most, it can have significant social and medical effects. Snoring has caused marriage breakdown and murder. It can lead to hypertension, heart failure, and the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Since Ikematsu developed palatopharyngoplasty (PPP) in 1952 and Fujita introduced it to North America in 1981, numerous reports have alluded to its efficacy in the management of snoring. From June 1986 to February 1988, 110 PPP operations were performed at The Wellesley Hospital, University of Toronto. Of these, 58 patients responded to review and questionnaire. Elimination or improvement of their snoring was reported by 75.9% of patients. Complications encountered are discussed. We conclude that palatopharyngoplasty (PPP) is a safe and effective technique in the treatment of problematic snoring.