Sleep-disordered breathing is rising in prevalence and has a large associated health and socio-economic burden. There has been growing interest, but a poor understanding, regarding the role and mode of action of radiofrequency ablation therapy. This thesis describes the role of radiofrequency thermal ablation in sleep-related breathing disorders and provides current updates in its scientific, cellular basis along with surgical tips and pitfalls. Long term outcomes, management strategies and further avenues for research are considered.