Histologic effects of injection snoreplasty and radiofrequency in the rat soft palate.

Abstract

This study was undertaken to compare the effects of radiofrequency and injection snoreplasty on the histological structure of the soft palate in an animal model. This is a blinded, controlled histologic evaluation of rat soft palates that underwent separate palatal interventions. Fifty rats were divided into 5 groups of 10 rats (Group 1 = injection snoreplasty [IS], Group 2 = IS + steroid, Group 3 = saline injection, Group 4 = radiofrequency ablation [RFA], and Group 5 = no intervention). The animals were sacrificed after 24 hours, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 5 weeks. Then the soft palates were subjected to histological analysis. Histological analysis demonstrated normal remucosalization in all specimens, with fibrosis increased in Group 1. Interstitial edema was minimal in Group 2. Keratinization was most apparent in Group 4. Radiofrequency and injection snoreplasty stiffen the rat soft palate compared with controls.