EVALUATION OF SOME VELAR FUNCTIONS BEFORE AND AFTER SURGICAL-TREATMENT OF SNORING

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate velar function befor e and after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for isolated snoring and for sle ep apnoea. It is based on the analysis of oral and nasal airflow durin g phonation by an EVA workstation of 24 patients before and after the surgical intervention. The results show (1) quantitative and qualitati ve airflow abnormalities before the operation, (2) an increase in the percentage of nasal airflow after the operation, and (3) a change in t he airflow sequence, which is improved after the surgical procedure. I n conclusion, this work confirms a modification of velar function afte r uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and raises the problem of contra-indicatio ns to this intervention.