I would appreciate if someone could tell me something about UPPP operation. My friend is scheduled for this procedure and I fell stupid not knowing anything. Thanks anyway.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP is surgery aimed at preventing collapse of the palate, tonsils, and pharynx which is common in sleep apnea. This procedure is most successful in patients who have large tonsils, a long uvula or a long, wide palate. UPPP is also more successful in patients who are not obese. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia which means that the patient is completely asleep. In simple terms, in this procedure tonsils and the uvula are removed, and the palate is trimmed higher. All of the surgical cuts are closed with stitches and UPPP usually requires an over night stay in the hospital. This is due to a necessity to monitor breathing and to control pain. A UPPP is successful 50-60% of the time in preventing or decreasing obstructive sleep apnea and I have to say that occasionally a second operation is needed to stop this post-operative bleeding. I wish a fast recovery for your friend.