uvullectomy

Uvullectomy, or excision of the uvula, is a surgical procedure in which all or part of the uvula, the fleshy projection hanging from the posterior edge of the soft palate, is removed. The procedure is used to treat uvular hypertrophy, chronic inflammatory conditions, elongated uvula, or symptomatic palatal obstruction, and may be performed as part of broader palatal surgery for snoring or sleep-disordered breathing.

Indications include persistent snoring attributed to an elongated or enlarged uvula, uvular cysts or tumors, recurrent uvulitis, or as component of sleep apnea treatment when other measures fail or are unsuitable. Contraindications include significant gag reflex abnormalities, velopharyngeal insufficiency risk, active infection, or poor anesthesia risk.

The operation is typically done under general anesthesia. The surgeon removes the desired portion of the uvula with a scalpel, laser, or cautery device, and may reshape or trim adjacent soft palate tissue. The procedure may be performed alone or as part of a larger palatal procedure such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.

Recovery involves throat pain, difficulty swallowing, and a soft diet for days to weeks. Risks include bleeding, infection, dehydration, pain, changes in swallowing, nasal regurgitation or hypernasal speech from velopharyngeal insufficiency, and alteration of gag reflex. Most patients experience gradual improvement.

Outcomes vary; uvullectomy can reduce snoring and palatal obstruction in appropriately selected patients, but it is not a universal cure for sleep apnea. Alternatives include conservative measures, medical management, CPAP therapy, and other palatal surgeries.