title: Long-term compliance of the Velumount® palatal device.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term compliance of the Velumount® palatal device.
  
  
  METHODS
  This was a cohort study: 46 patients who received a Velumount device three years previously were enrolled. A questionnaire was sent to all patients. The data of 43 patients (93%) could be evaluated.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Seventeen (40%) patients used the Velumount device regularly (>5 nights per week). However, 24 (56%) abandoned its use, 1 (2%) used it only occasionally (1-2 nights/week) and 1 (2%) used it only on special occasions. The main reasons for discontinuing Velumount were gag reflex (36%) and foreign body sensation (20%).
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The long-term compliance of the Velumount is 40%. Those patients who tolerate Velumount well use it regularly at least 5 nights per week. The Velumount palatal device is a valuable treatment option in counseling for patients with primary snoring or mild obstructive sleep apnea.
authors.affiliation: ENT Clinic, Kantonsspital Liestal, Liestal, Switzerland.
authors.forename: Jonas
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zehnder
authors.forename: Kurt Peter
authors.initials: KP
authors.lastname: Tschopp
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019186:Mandibular Advancement / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010159:Palate; D010349:Patient Compliance; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D020181:Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / Q000628:therapy*; D012913:Snoring / Q000628:therapy*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013995:Time; D016896:Treatment Outcome