Temperature-controlled radiofrequency tonsil reduction: Extended follow-up

OBJECTIVE: Initial evaluation has shown that temperature-controlled radiofr equency submucosal tonsil reduction (Tonsil Somnoplasty) effectively treats obstructive symptoms of tonsillar hypertrophy with minimal associated disc omfort and rapid return to normal activity and diet. This study assesses th e effects of treatment over an extended followup period of up to a year. STUDY DESIGN: Twelve adults with symptomatic chronic tonsil enlargement und erwent an average of 1.5 treatments. Evaluation included periodic oropharyn geal airway measurements, and questionnaires on treatment morbidity and sym ptom improvement. RESULTS: Data on 12 patients at 3 months and 6 months, and 5 patients at 1 year show sustained increases in oropharyngeal airway size (1.7 cm/3 mo, 1. 8 cm/6 mo, 2.4 cm/12 mo) and reduction in obstructive symptoms (Epworth Sco re decrease of 70%/3 mo, 58%/6 mo, 67%/12 mo; snoring reduction of 81%/3 mo , 79%/6,mo, 78%/12 mo) without significant differences after 3 months. A se cond treatment reduced tonsil size but gave variable further symptom improv ement. CONCLUSION: The effects of Tonsil Somnoplasty are maintained on follow-up t o I year.