LAUP is performed under local or general anaesthetic and is considered to be a safer, more economical and a more comfortable alternative to UPPP. It involves vaporising the free edge of the soft palate and uvula using a laser. Unlike UPPP, LAUP may have to be repeated in order to obtain the desired effect. The tonsils are removed if needed along with this procedure. Although laser surgery is associated with fewer complications than UPPP, post-operative pain is still reported as being mild to moderate
Post-operative pain peaked anywhere from 3 to 9 days after surgery and usually resolved within 2 weeks
The results are encouraging 70-80% cure OSA and 80-90% cure for snoring.
LAPT is also done at the same time. Any septal deviation can also be corrected with Laser.
Dr Paulose is an ENT Consultant Plastic and Laser Surgeon with over 35 years of experience covering in Ear, Nose and Throat procedures, specializing in Laser Surgery and conventional medicine across India, U.K. and Middle East. He is currently engaged with the Jubilee Hospital, in Kerala, India.
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