Innovative bipolar radiofrequency volumetric reduction with 'ORL-Set' for treatment of habitual snorers

摘要

Objective: The present study was undertaken in an effort to assess the use and the efficacy of an innovative radiofrequency system (RaVoR~(TM), Select- Sutter, Freiburg) and the bipolar electrodes conceived by the author for the treatment of habitual, disruptive snoring. Study Design: Retrospective review. Methods: Thirty-one patients diagnosed with primary snoring and 5 patients with associated sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) were treated according to the method and with the RaVoR~(TM) system in the past three years. The intensity as well as the snoring density was assessed on a numeric analogue scale. Results: Snoring was reduced in 31 (86%) patients. Ten of them (28%) stopped snoring altogether, according to their sleeping partners. Conclusions: The bipolar radio-frequency method with the ORL-Set (RaVoR~(TM)) has proven to be a safe and effective means for the treatment of snoring and some cases of SAS.