Laser Assisted Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty

Abstract

LASER is acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiations. Medical laser technology has revolutionized the way surgeries are being done. As laser provide exceptional benefits to the patients it is also called-“A BEAM OF LIGHT FOR THE BENEFIT OF MANKIND”. Carbon-dioxide laser is used to excise and vaporize tissue. Surgical injury to the tissue is determined by the power density and spot size. Vaporization is carried out in the defocused mode while cutting or excision is done in focused mode. Laser is being used in almost all parts of the human body. Laser surgery has become the choice of millions world over as it provides exceptional benefits not only to the patients but also to the surgical community. In the last seven years, 195 patients suffering from obstructive sleep apnea syndrome were subjected to Laser Assisted Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (LAUP). Trimming and reshaping of the Uvula and Palate is done as outpatient. It is like a visit to a dentist. It takes 10–15 minutes per session. The procedure is repeated 3–4 times. Sittings are spaced about 3–4 weeks apart. The patient can go back to work the same day.