Professor, Doctor Le Minh Ky, Head of the Department of Ear, Nose, and Throat at Tam Anh General Hospital Hanoi, diagnosed Phu with grade 4 hypertrophic tonsillitis (the most severe level), an elongated uvula, and a deviated nasal septum. These conditions caused upper airway narrowing, leading to snoring and sleep apnea.

"A deviated nasal septum obstructs airflow through the nose, forcing patients to breathe through their mouth," Professor Ky explained. This habit dries the throat lining, making it easily irritated and increasing the risk of chronic inflammation, which worsens snoring and sleep apnea. Over time, lymphoid tissue proliferation in the throat causes tonsil hypertrophy, while prolonged inflammation also thickens and lengthens soft palate tissues, such as the uvula.

Phu underwent endoscopic surgery for septoplasty, palatoplasty, and tonsillectomy using radiofrequency waves. This single operation effectively addressed all his issues.

Professor Ky and his endoscopic surgical team treated Phu for snoring and sleep apnea. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

After intubation anesthesia, the surgical team applied vasoconstrictor medication to both nasal turbinates. This shrank the nasal mucosa and widened the nasal passage, facilitating surgical maneuvers. Intraoperative examination confirmed a deviated septum. The surgery involved dissecting the mucosal layer, trimming, and removing deviated cartilage and bone, restoring the septum's straight axis. Afterward, the doctors performed a tonsillectomy and palatoplasty using Coblator technology.

Post-operative endoscopy showed no abnormalities, and Phu was discharged after three days, in stable health.

Many causes contribute to sleep apnea, but common ones include airway abnormalities resulting from hypertrophic tonsillitis or a deviated nasal septum. If left untreated, the condition risks causing high blood pressure, diabetes, and memory impairment. Doctors advise individuals with these symptoms to visit an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist for timely diagnosis and treatment to avoid complications.

Hieu Nguyen

*Patient's name has been changed