uvul-, uvulo- +

Bifurcation of the uvula, considered an incomplete form of cleft palate.

Also called: cleft, forked, or split uvula fissa, and staphyloschisis.

1. A small, soft structure hanging from the free edge of the soft palate in the midline above the root of the tongue.
2. The small piece of soft tissue that can be seen dangling down from the soft palate over the back of the tongue.

The uvula is described variously shaped like a U, a tear, or a grape. Its name comes from the Latin word uva, "grape".

It is composed of muscle, connective tissue, and mucous membrane; however, its function is not certain and it seldom causes problems.

A slight projection into the cavity of the bladder, usually more prominent in older men, just behind the urethral opening, marking the location of the middle lobe of the prostate.

A conical projection from the posterior edge of the middle of the soft palate.

A reference to the uvula.

Muscle of the uvula.

An instrument for cutting the uvula.

Any cutting operation on the uvula.

Excision or surgical removal of the uvula (central tag-like structure hanging down from the edge of the soft palate or roof of the mouth).

Inflammation of the uvula.

1. The surgical trimming back of excess palatal and pharyngeal tissue which is done to widen the airway and relieve obstructive sleep apnea or severe snoring.
2. Surgery to excise the uvula, part of the soft palate and the tonsils.

It is done to help people with severe snoring problems but it does not always achieve a cure

The procedure is usually done by using laser therapy.

Relaxation or elongation of the uvula (central tag-like structure hanging down from the edge of the soft palate or roof of the mouth).