Abstract:ObjectiveTo discuss the surgical method and efficacy of modified Han-uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (MHUPPP) for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) caused by soft palate hypertrophy.MethodsFrom April 2013 to April 2014, 65 patients suffering from moderate to severe OSAHS with soft palate hypertrophy and palatal pharyngeal stenosis underwent soft palate median incision combined with Han-uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. Before and after operation, all patients received upper airway computerized tomography (CT) and other related examinations. The therapeutic effect was evaluated and the changes of various parameters were analyzed.ResultsOne year after MHUPPP, the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) decreased from (42.58±5.66) to (15.26±3.39), and the lowest blood oxygen saturation (LSaO2) increased from 0.743±0.063 to 0.8613±0.053, the differences were both statistically significant (both P<0.01). Postoperative Epworth sleepiness scale was significantly improved compared with that before operation, the difference was also statistically significant (P<0.01). Of all the 65 patients, 31 patients (47.7%) were cured, 30(46.2%) were significantly improved, 3(4.6%) were effective and one (1.5%) was ineffective. Three patients had mild postoperative dysphagia and pharyngalgia. Hemorrhage of tonsil fossa occurred in 2 patients at the 7th day after operation and got cured with local compression only.ConclusionsThe MHUPPP is a relatively simple procedure for the treatment of OSAHS, subjective curative effect is good, and fewer complications. It can be used selectively in clinic.