ABSTRACT

Due to the limited surgical success rates using the uvulpalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) alone in patients with SDB, an investigation for other sites of obstruction and surgical alternatives was undertaken. Diagnostic testing revealed that the hypopharynx may be a potential component of upper airway collapse in SDB. The hypopharyngeal sites of obstruction included the base of tongue and the lateral pharyngeal walls. Surgical procedures designed to treat this hypopharyngeal obstruction or collapse were subsequently implemented. The hyoid myotomy and suspension was designed to prevent both base of tongue collapse and, more significantly, lateral pharyngeal wall collapse. Modifications to the initial description have been attempted to improve the surgical success rate, while minimizing complications.