Therapy of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea using the Velumount palatal device.

OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study is to investigate the efficacy of the Velumount device. METHODS In a prospective cohort study 40 patients were examined with and without Velumount. The apnea-hypopnea index and average esophageal pressure were measured using nocturnal manometry of the upper airways, combined with respiratory polygraphy. The snoring index (1-10) and daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale were assessed by means of a questionnaire. RESULTS Using Velumount the snoring index was reduced from on average 8.4 (SD +/- 1.3) to 3.7 (SD +/- 2.5), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale score from on average 7.9 (SD +/- 4.4) to 3.8 (SD +/- 3.4) and esophageal pressure from on average 14.8 cm H(2)O (SD +/- 6.7) to 11.2 cm H(2)O (SD +/- 6.4). In patients (n = 25) with obstructive sleep apnea, the average apnea-hypopnea index was 24.3 (SD +/- 10.1) without and 13.6 (SD +/- 12.2) with Velumount. All changes were highly significant. CONCLUSIONS The Velumount device is effective for the treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. The effect is similar to that reported from uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.