How is UPPP surgery performed?

Procedure. UPPP involves removal of the tonsils, the posterior surface of the soft palate, and the uvula. The uvula is then folded toward the soft palate and sutured together as demonstrated in the figures.

How effective is UPPP surgery?

Results: The overall success rate of UPPP was 78%. Success rates for mild (90%), moderate (73%), moderate-severe (81%), and severe (74%) diseases were similar (p = . 10).

Is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty safe?

A review of 3,572 patients treated with uvulopalatopharyngoplasty revealed the incidence of serious complications to be 37.1 per 1,000 patients. The most common complications were postoperative hemorrhage and infections; there were no perioperative or postoperative deaths.

Does UPPP change your voice?

Previous reports have warned that tonsillectomy or uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) may alter patients’ speech by increasing the amount of nasal resonance as well as by changing voice timbre due to enlargement of the vocal tract.

How long does UPPP surgery take?

The area for surgery is often marked to make sure there are no errors. You will be kept comfortable and safe by your anesthesia provider. You will be asleep during the surgery. The surgery will take 1 to 2 hours.

What can you eat after UPPP surgery?

You will have to stay on a soft diet for 4-6 weeks after a UPPP. A soft diet includes foods such as custard, pudding, applesauce, Jell-O, broth, Popsicles, yogurt, ice cream, etc. After a few days as tolerated, you can advance to eggs, cooked cereals such as Cream of Wheat or oatmeal, and pancakes.

Does UPPP remove uvula?

UPPP involves removal of tissues that may include the uvula, soft palate, tonsils, adenoids and pharynx. In some instances, a small portion of the tongue may be removed as well.

Can you talk without a uvula?

The authors hypothesized that because the uvula and the ability to speak set humans apart from other mammals, the uvula might have a role in the speech process. An acquired absent uvula may be secondary to surgery or cultural practices, or it may be a complication of infection.

Can you live without a uvula?

Life without my uvula is a life without snoring and constant discomfort. Mr. Torres felt tired all the time. He was sleep deprived and had symptoms associated with sleep apnea, such as daytime drowsiness, lack of energy and difficulty concentrating.

How is UPPP surgery performed?