[Radiofrequency coblation of tongue channeling for supine position associated obstructive sleep apnea].

Objective: To assess the effect of low-temperature radiofrequency coblation of tongue Channeling for supine position associated OSAHS.

Method: One thousand and three hundred eighty one patients with OSAHS were examined and treated with radiofrequency coblation of tongue channeling. Polysomnography was performed before and one year after the surgery. Visual analogue scale was performed to assess the postoperative function of speech and swallowing, Scores of quality of life and sleepiness scale to evaluate the effectiveness of the surgery.

Result: One year after the surgery, the patients were obviously relieved with sleep snoring, arousal and daytime sleepiness symptoms as swallowing and speech function was not affected. AHI with supine position was reduced by an average of 27.1 times/h and the minimum postoperative O2 saturation was significantly increased. SF-36 health questionnaire survey showed that social function and mental health dimension scores were significantly higher than the preoperative.

Conclusion: Radiofrequency coblation of tongue channeling is an applicable method of therapy for patients who have sleep apnea that is more marked in the supine position.