[Efficacy of velopharyngoplasty for treating obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome].

Objective: To investigate the indication, efficacy and influencing factors of velopharyngoplasty for treating of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).

Method: Thirty OSAHS patients were included in this study, all cases had velopharyngoplasty. The follow-up period was between 6 to 11 months; and a series of measurements parameters was analysed for thirty cases.

Result: When compared preoperatively and postoperatively, Apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) decreased from 54.6+/-18.3 to 25.3+/-9.5; and the Epworth sleep scale decreased from 16.5+/-4.8 to 5.2+/-4.1. According to related criterion in China, the effective rate was 70.0%.

Conclusion: Velopharyngoplasty can upgrade the venlopalate and enlarge the space of the oropharynx by remodeling of soft palate, contraction of scar and removal of the tonsils.