Radiofrequency is a high-frequency alternating current used to treat the base of the tongue, palate, tonsils, and nasal Concha in sleep apnea. It is usually applied to treat sleep apnea.
Also known as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), this surgical procedure is a minimally invasive surgical procedure in which small amounts of targeted energy are directed to the base of the tongue or palate to tighten and reduce tissue. This prevents the tongue from blocking the airway during sleep, which is a cause of frequent snoring and obstructive sleep apnea . Patients undergoing RFA have less post-surgical pain and faster recovery time compared to other surgeries used to treat obstructive sleep apnea.