This study was designed to evaluate the volumetric reduction and the
histologic changes of the soft palate after coblation (cold ablation) technology
in experimental animals. Sixty male rabbits were included in the
study divided into 3 groups : group (A), group(B) and group(C). Each
group included 10 control and 10 study animals. Exposure of the soft palate
to coblation was done in study animals of the 3 groups submucosaly
at 3 sites, one at midportion and 2 at lateral sides of the soft palate for
one minute duration in each site. The control animals of the 3 groups
were left without any interference. The animals of group A, B and C were
studied 1 month, 2 months and 3 months respectively. The soft palate of
each rabbit was dissected and volume was calculated. Specimens of soft
palate of both control and study animals were examined by electron microscopic
study. Died animals were excluded from this study. The comparison
of the mean volume of soft palate in the study groups showed
gradual increased reduction with time as it was more after 3 months
(group C) than 2 months (group B) and 1 month (group A). This result was
confirmed by electron microscopic study as there was an increase in the
amount of collagen fibers in the subepithelial layer gradually in study
groups which was mild, moderate and marked in group A, B and C respectively
Cytoplasmic vacuoles were detected more in the epithelial
Layer of study group (A) than group (B) this means degenerative changes
which is reversible as it was decreased by time and disappeared in
group (C). There is no effect on the mucosal glands of the epithelium or |
