Overview of Recent Advances in Surgical Treatments for OSA

Abstract

To review recent advances in diagnosis and surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Drug-induced sleep endoscopy allows for dynamic visual assessment of the upper airway in a sleep-like state. Definitive trials are underway to confirm its validity. Nasal surgery can decrease required continuous positive airway pressure pressures, improving its tolerability. Surgical techniques modifying the airway to prevent obstruction have advanced in recent years through improvements in technique and patient selection. A new and effective procedure employs an implantable nerve stimulation device to maintain airway tone. The literature supporting the safety and efficacy of upper airway diagnostics and surgery continues to grow. Advanced airway diagnostics provide a targeted anatomic evaluation which may help guide therapy. Reliable surgical techniques can address obstruction at the nasal, oropharyngeal, or hypopharyngeal airway. Upper airway stimulation and skeletal surgery target multiple levels of collapse and are particularly efficacious. Level of evidence/study design: Retrospective