Cautery-assisted palatal stiffening operation (CAPSO)  is a simple and safe office procedure that avoids the need for multiple-stage operations and does not rely on expensive laser systems or radiofrequency generators and hand pieces.

Principle:

CAPSO or electrical cautery, burns the palate causing fibrosis and consequent stiffening of the soft palate. It is also used a means to remove a longitudinal strip of mucosa along the soft palate or uvula.

This procedure is performed during a single out-patient visit under local anaesthetic.

Efficacy:

The success rate was initially 92% and dipped to 77% after 1 year. CAPSO eliminates excessive snoring caused by palatal flutter and has success rates that were comparable with those of traditional palatal surgery.

Because this procedure is less invasive than UPPP or LAUP there are generally fewer complications, however post-operative pain is similar to the other surgical methods. Data now available shows that the short-term efficacy is also similar to that of UPPP and LAUP. As with LAUP, CAPSO can be repeated until the desired effect on the snoring is gained.