1. Describe, compare, and contrast various classic and new palatal surgical therapies in the treatment of snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

2. Provide interactive teaching with case presentations and discussion from recognized leaders of diverse surgical perspectives.

Description of Symposium: The surgical treatment of snoring and mild obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) has evolved significantly in recent years. From uvulopalatoplasty (UPPP) to laser-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP), cautery-assisted palatal stiffening operation (CAPSO), and radiofrequency thermal ablation (somnoplasty), today’s otolaryngologist may easily become confused as to which surgery best diminishes excessive snoring and accommodates practice parameters. This symposium brings recognized experts from each of these surgical persuasions together in a lively controversial discussion. Presented topics include: clinical "How I Do It" pearls, advantages and limitations of each technique, patient selection, preoperative and postoperative care, results and complications, cost analysis, case presentations, and an interactive question and answer session with the audience.

The purpose of this conference is to provide up-to-date clinically-relevant information to help the otolaryngologist determine which surgeries are best suited to diminish tumultuous snoring and mild OSAS given specific patient and practice settings.

AAO-HNS, 1998, (abstract).