Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on radiofrequency ablation of the soft palate for snoring.

Authors' recommendations: 1.1 Current evidence suggests that there are no major safety concerns associated with radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of the soft palate for snoring. However, evidence on the short-term efficacy is limited and long-term outcomes are uncertain. Therefore, this procedure should not be used without special arrangements for audit, consent and research. 1.2 Clinicians wishing to undertake radiofrequency ablation of the soft palate for snoring should take the following actions. - Inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts. - Ensure that patients understand the uncertainty about the procedure's efficacy and that they are fully informed about alternative treatment options, including lifestyle changes. Patients should also be provided with clear written information, and use of the Institute's Information for the public is recommended. - Audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients having radiofrequency ablation of the soft palate for snoring. 1.3 Publication of efficacy outcomes will be useful. The Institute may review the procedure upon publication of further evidence.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/ipcat.aspx?c=212220

Year Published: 2005

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: National Institute for Clinical Excellence

Contact Address: MidCity Place, 71 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NA, UK. Tel: +44 020 7067 5800; Fax: +44 020 7067 5801

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)