Usage of KTP/532 Laser in the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome. Midline Glossectomy

A 31-year-old male with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome was treated with KTP/532 laser midline glossectomy. He had complained of severe snoring and hypersomnolence for 2 years and sleep apnea for 1 year. His apnea index (Al) was 65.0 events/h and the lowest arterial O2 saturation (SaO2) was 44%. Cephalometric analysis and flexible fiberoptic pharyngeal endoscopy during Muller's maneuver indicated that the space-occupying sites responsible for sleep apnea were at two different levels (oropharynx-soft palate and hypopharynx-base of the tongue). The application of KTP/532 laser to midline glossectomy with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty caused slight bleeding but no obvious complications. Postoperative respiratory parameters were greatly improved: Al 5.5 and lowest SaO2 85%. Cephalometric and fiberoptic findings showed an enlarged pharyngeal space at the level of the base of the tongue. Sleep-related complaints disappeared completely.