Barbed stitch reposition pharyngoplasty as a surgical treatment for sleep apnea patients

Abstract

<b><br>Introduction:</b> Surgical methods for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome play an increasingly important role. The development of surgical techniques makes the procedure less invasive, achieves better treatment results, and has a greater possibility of restoring the normal function of the upper airway. One of the sleep surgery for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is pharyngoplasty. Barbed Stitch Reposition Pharyngoplasty is a relatively new surgical technique introduced in 2012.</br> <b><br>Aim:</b> Description of Barbed Stitch Reposition Pharyngoplasty, indications, and contraindications for this procedure as well as the risk of complications and a success rate.</br> <b><br>Material and method:</b> A literature review and own experience were conducted in the PubMed database, from 2012–2023, on the surgical technique, e.g. Barbed Stitch Reposition Pharyngoplasty.</br> <b><br>Results:</b> A significant decrease in apnea/hypopnea index and oxygen desaturation index as well as daily sleepiness is observed in the majority of patients who underwent Barbed Stitch Reposition Pharyngoplasty. All patients suffer from postoperative sore throats of varying intensity. The pain may last up to 2 weeks postoperatively. The most common complications reported by patients include odynophagia – 71%, swallowing disorders – 51%, and short-term feeling of a foreign body in the throat – 52% [1–3]. The postoperative surgical success rate ranged 65.4–93% of cases.</br> <b><br>Conclusions:</b> Barbed Stitch Reposition Pharyngoplasty is a relatively safe and effective method of surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The success of the procedure is enhanced by proper patient selection, surgical experience, and knowledge of functional upper airway anatomy.</br>