Intraoperative Complications Following Lateral Suspension Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Prospective Observational Study with Literature-Based Comparison
Keywords:
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, Lateral Suspension, Pharyngoplasty, Intraoperative Complications, Airway Surgery.Abstract
Background: Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) remains one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Despite its effectiveness, conventional UPPP and several contemporary pharyngoplasty procedures are associated with complications including intraoperative hemorrhage, airway compromise, need for ICU admission, and tracheostomy. Lateral suspension uvulopalatopharyngoplasty is a modified technique intended to improve lateral pharyngeal wall stability without extensive muscular reconstruction or use of barbed sutures.
Objective: To evaluate intraoperative complications following lateral suspension uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and compare the observed morbidity profile with complication rates reported in the literature for conventional and modified pharyngoplasty procedures.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted on 20 patients with severe obstructive sleep apnoea who underwent lateral suspension uvulopalatopharyngoplasty at a tertiary care centre. Patients were evaluated using a structured intraoperative assessment protocol documenting intraoperative events and transient postoperative morbidity.
Results: Transient laryngospasm during extubation occurred in one patient (5%) and was successfully managed using laryngeal mask ventilation without the need for reintubation or intensive care support. No patient developed intraoperative hemorrhage or airway compromise. Expected postoperative throat discomfort and odynophagia were observed during the immediate postoperative period and improved with conservative management.
Conclusion: Lateral suspension uvulopalatopharyngoplasty demonstrated low intraoperative morbidity in the present cohort. When compared with complication rates reported in the literature for conventional and modified pharyngoplasty procedures, the technique appears to provide an acceptable safety profile while offering a relatively simple method of lateral pharyngeal wall stabilization.
