Succinct key points
- Nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS) is one of the challenging problems that can complicate palatal surgeries. Numerous diverse surgical interventions have been used to correct NPS; but, most are complicated and result in inconsistent outcomes
- The aim of the current study wasto evaluate the safety and the efficacy of a modified Z-palatoplasty (ZPP) techniquein the management of post-surgical nasopharyngeal stenosis (NPS), describing its steps and results.
- Surgical repair using a modified ZPP was employed on patients with snoring± OSA due to acquired post-surgical NPS of grade Ι and ΙΙthen the pre and postoperative results were statistically compared and adverse events were recorded.
- The grade of NPS improved significantly postoperatively (p=0.00136) throughout a follow up of one yearwithsignificant improvement of AHI (p=0.0005), VAS of nasal obstruction (p<0.0001) and VAS of snoring (p<0.0001). While transient VPI and dysphagia disappeared within 3 months postoperatively.
- The utilized procedure appears fast, low cost, and easily applicable, and it does not require implants, special tools or suture materials. Furthermore, it gives promising results, with tolerable pain, and rapid recovery without significant or persistent complications.
Key words: Nasopharyngeal stenosis, palatal surgery, obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, apnea hypoapnea index, UPPP, velopharynx, ZPP.