[Meta-analysis of laser-assisted uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. What is clinically relevant up to now?].
BACKGROUND
Laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP) was not recommended by the American Sleep Disorders Association for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) because of data lacking in 1994. In the meantime numerous new papers concerning this subject have been published in peer reviewed journals. A new evaluation of the value of LAUP is presented.


METHODS
In a world-wide literature search (Medline) from 1980 until March 1999, seventy articles were identified. The papers were analyzed concerning the subtopics "operative techniques", "LAUP and OSA", "LAUP and snoring", "pain", "side-effects", "indications" and "predictive criteria".


RESULTS
On the basis of the collected data, it is possible to put definitive values on the subtopics "operative techniques", "LAUP and snoring" and "side-effects". In contrast, objective long-term results concerning "LAUP and OSA" are still missing. Short-term results are promising.


CONCLUSIONS
Nevertheless, LAUP and its related procedures presently should not be recommended for the treatment of any severity of OSA.
Klinik und Poliklinik für Hals-Nasen-Ohrenheilkunde, Universitätsklinikum Ulm.
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D000328:Adult; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008875:Middle Aged; D010160:Palate, Soft / Q000601:surgery*; D010614:Pharynx / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology; D020181:Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / Q000601:surgery*; D012913:Snoring / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014609:Uvula / Q000601:surgery*