Surgery for obstructive sleep apnea: Effects on sleep, breathing, and oxygenation

Advances in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea have evolved rapidly over the past two decades. Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices are effective, but are neither curative nor universally well tolerated. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) has been reported to have widely varying success rates; many studies of this procedure do not include data about sleep quality, oxygenation, or patient satisfaction. The role of nasal surgery in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea remains controversial. We reviewed the outcome of surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea in the hands of a single surgeon, specifically evaluating its effects on sleep and oxygenation parameters. Overall, 12 of 15 patients (80%) had marked improvement, reflected by oximetry and patient interview. This pilot study shows that the combined use of UPPP and nasal surgery, when indicated, for obstructive sleep apnea is an acceptable alternative in nasal CPAP-intolerant patients. Further studies with larger numbers are needed to further substantiate these findings.