Definition: Surgical procedure that involves removal of extra soft tissue on the back of the throat. This tissue includes all or part of the uvula (the soft flap of tissue that hangs down at the back of the throat) as well as parts of the soft palate and the throat tissue behind it. This is a common surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, and helps keep the airway open by decreasing the amount of tissue that can collapse of the upper airway.
Also Known As: palatopharyngoplasty, uppp, up3
