title: Comparative study of four radiofrequency generators for the treatment of snoring.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To compare the efficacy and safety of four radiofrequency generators (Ellman, Select Sutter, Coblator, Somnus) for the treatment of simple snoring.
  
  
  METHODS
  Multicenter, randomized, prospective single-blind study on 120 selected patients with simple snoring (apnea/hypopnea index <10/h of sleep). Snoring sound intensity was measured on a visual analog scale and the partner's short-term satisfaction rate was evaluated after two treatment sessions maximum. Discomfort, pain, and medication intake were compared.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Radiofrequency decreased the snoring sound intensity from 7.9 +/- 1.7 to 4.4 +/- 2.7 (P < 0.0001). The four radiofrequency generators had a statistically comparable efficacy. The Ellman generator caused less discomfort and required less anti-inflammatory drugs.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Despite different technical characteristics, the four generators had a comparable efficacy with good safety. The Ellman generator induced the least discomfort.
authors.affiliation: Department of Otolaryngology-Head Neck Surgery, Foch Hospital, Suresnes, France. mbjblu@club-internet.fr
authors.forename: Marc B
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: Blumen
authors.forename: Frédéric
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Chalumeau
authors.forename: Anne
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Gauthier
authors.forename: Serge
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Bobin
authors.forename: André
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Coste
authors.forename: Frédéric
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Chabolle
mesh_terms: D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D010147:Pain Measurement; D010159:Palate / Q000601:surgery*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012913:Snoring / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000601:surgery*; D016896:Treatment Outcome