Changes in laryngopharyngeal reflux after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for obstructive sleep apnea: An observational study

Abstract Purpose To estimate laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) changes after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using the reflux symptom index (RSI) and reflux finding score (RFS) questionnaires. Methods A total of 91 participants were recruited and divided into three groups: control (n = 27), OSA mild to moderate (n = 29), and OSA severe (n = 35) groups according to polysomnography. All participants completed the preoperative RSI, and underwent blinded evaluation on videolaryngoscopy using the RFS questionnaire. Thirty‐four OSA patients who underwent UPPP surgery completed postoperative polysomnography and questionnaires again after a 6‐month follow‐up. Results The RSI score and RFS were higher in patients with OSA than in those without OSA. Patients with severe OSA also had a higher RSI score and RFS than those with mild to moderate OSA. Apnea and hypopnea index degree and percentage of recording time for