Randomized-controlled study comparing post-operative pain between coblation palatoplasty and laser palatoplasty.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to evaluate differences in post-operative pain comparing KTP laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty without tonsillectomy (LAUP) with a new described surgical method: coblation uvulopalatoplasty with tonsillectomy (CP). We also evaluate the impact of each surgical technique in reduction of snoring loudness.


METHODS
Single blind randomized-controlled trial. From a population of 41 consecutive patients on the waiting list for uvulopalatoplasty for simple snoring, the study group was reduced to 17 CP and 13 LAUP. Post-operative pain and reduction of snoring loudness were recorded using visual analogue scales (VAS) during the first 15 post-operative days. Post-operative snoring loudness was documented for 1-year period.


RESULTS
Both groups had similar post-operative pain during the first seven post-operative days. A statistically significant reduction in post-operative pain was observed in the CP group after day 8, and maintained until the end of the study. Reduction of snoring loudness was significant in both groups, but no differences were observed between them.


CONCLUSIONS
Coblation uvulopalatoplasty compared with LAUP demonstrates a reduction in post-operative pain, significant after the first post-operative week. The collateral thermal injury caused by laser is responsible for the slow-healing rate and maintained post-operative pain. Coblation dissociates tissue at lower temperatures with minimal collateral thermal injury and consequently faster and less painful recovery. Both surgical procedures have significant and similar reduction in snoring loudness.


CONCLUSIONS
Both methods are adequate treatment options for snoring. The less painful recovery in CP promotes this surgical technique as our preferred choice for palate surgery.
Belloso
A
A
Department of Otolaryngology, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, UK. a.belloso@btinternet.com
Morar
P
P
Tahery
J
J
Saravanan
K
K
Nigam
A
A
Timms
M S
MS
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000209:etiology*; D010159:Palate / Q000601:surgery*; D016037:Single-Blind Method; D020181:Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / Q000601:surgery*; D012913:Snoring / Q000601:surgery; D014068:Tonsillectomy / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014609:Uvula / Q000601:surgery*