Decrease In Apnea-hypopnea Index Research Articles

Decreased serum betatrophin may correlate with the improvement of obstructive sleep apnea after Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass surgery

Obesity is strongly correlated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and bariatric surgery can effectively treat obesity and alleviate OSA. However, the contributing factors are still unclear. We aimed to explore the relationship between betatrophin and OSA in patients undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery. Our study consisted of thirty-seven individuals with OSA and type 2 diabetes (16 males, 21 females) undergoing RYGB surgery. The polysomnography test, anthropometric results, serum betatrophin, and abdominal magnetic resonance images were evaluated both before and 1 year after RYGB surgery. Factors that may correlate with the alleviation of OSA were investigated. In our study, RYGB surgery significantly decreased apnea hypopnea index (AHI) and serum betatrophin concentration (p < 0.001). The abdominal visceral fat area, subcutaneous fat area and HOMA-IR were also significantly decreased (p < 0.001). The preoperative AHI, postoperative AHI and the change in AHI were significantly correlated with the preoperative betatrophin, postoperative betatrophin and the change in betatrophin, respectively (p < 0.05). These correlations were still significant after adjustment for other risk factors. The change in betatrophin was also independently associated with the change in minimum oxygen saturation (p < 0.001). Our data might indicate that serum betatrophin was significantly independently correlated with the improvement of OSA after bariatric surgery.

Effects of the mandibular advancement device on daytime sleepiness, quality of life and polysomnographic profile of public transport drivers with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of the mandibular advancement device (MAD) on daytime sleepiness, quality of life (QoL) and polysomnographic profile of intercity transport drivers with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).Material and MethodsA quasi-experimental study evaluating intercity transport drivers from March to September 2019. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was evaluated by type III polysomnography, which defined the severity of the disease. OSAS: mild (5 to 15), moderate (15 to 29), or severe (= 30). Sleepiness was assessed using the Epworth sleepiness scale, consisting of 8 questions about the likelihood of drowsiness in daily situations. QoL was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire, which provides the score in eight domains: functional capacity, physical aspects, pain, general health status, vitality, social aspects, emotional aspects, and mental health. Drivers with OSAS underwent intervention with application of personalized MAD for 8 to 12 weeks.ResultsThe total sample (n=23) (44.77±11.56 years) had a body mass index (BMI) of 30.64±4.66kg/m2, and an OSAS prevalence of 65.2% of drivers (n=15). There were losses of 4 drivers so that the final sample of drivers with OSAS for the intervention with the MAD was 11 individuals, with an average age of 45.54±9.41 years and BMI of 32.21±3.17kg/m². There was a decrease in AHI (28.51±15.66ev/h 012.11±6.70ev/h, p=0.002) and pain (60 (50-60)040 (40-50), p=0.015) after the intervention.ConclusionThere was a reduction in AHI in intercity transport drivers after implementing the MAD procedure.

The maturation changes of sleep-related respiratory abnormalities in infants with laryngomalacia.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA) are common in infants with laryngomalacia. The purpose of this study was to evaluate developmental changes in sleep-related breathing disorders over time in infants with laryngomalacia and understand the effect of supraglottoplasty (SGP) and nonsurgical treatment. This is a retrospective review of infants with laryngomalacia who had at least 2 diagnostic polysomnography studies performed from January 2000 and May 2015. We included infants who had either OSA or CSA. Comparison of sleep and respiratory parameters by age group (0-6, 6-12, and >12 months old) was performed in both SGP and non-SGP groups using a mixed-effect regression model. A log-normal mixed model was used to explore the changes in sleep and respiratory parameters with age. The time to resolution of CSA and OSA was analyzed using nonparametric survival analysis. A total of 102 infants were included; 57 had only OSA and 45 had both CSA and OSA. There were significant decreases in apnea-hypopnea index, obstructive index, central apnea index, and arousal index with increasing age in both SGP and non-SGP groups. The mean age at resolution of CSA (central apnea index < 5) was 7.60 months old for SGP and 12.57 months old for non-SGP (P < .05). There were no significant differences in the mean age at resolution of OSA (obstructive index < 1; 35.18 [SGP] vs 41.55 months [non-SGP]; P = .60) between SGP and non-SGP groups. Infants with neurologic disease, congenital anomalies, or genetic syndromes required significantly more time to resolve OSA (28.12 [normal] vs 53.13 [neurological] vs 59.53 months [congenital anomalies and genetic]; P < .01). Both OSA and CSA improve in infants with laryngomalacia with increasing age regardless of SGP. The mechanism underlying these changes may involve airway growth and maturation of respiratory control. Time to resolution of OSA is affected by the presence of neurologic diseases, congenital anomalies, and genetic syndromes. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and to evaluate long-term outcomes in this population.

Adherence and efficacy of long-term PAP therapy in patients with sleep-related breathing disorders associated with cardiac conduction disorders

To study the effectiveness of prolonged use of PAP therapy (positive airway pressure therapy) in eliminating sleep respiratory disorders and associated cardiac conduction disturbances. We included 21 patients who were examined at the Myasnikov Institute of Clinical Cardiology, National Medical Research Center of Cardiology, regarding cardiac rhythm and conduction disturbances, as well as obstructive sleep apnea and who have been on PAP therapy for more than 12 months. The average age was 66.5 [63.5; 73.2] years, body mass index 33.0 [30.2; 38.5] kg/m2, apnea-hypopnea index 65.0 [59.0; 86.3]/h. At the time of analysis, 15 patients continued to use PAP therapy (mean time of use: 6.0 years [4.7; 9.2]) and 6 patients refused long-term use of PAP therapy, mean time to use PAP therapy until failure amounted to 2.82.1 years. PAP therapy lead to a persistent decrease in apnea-hypopnea index of 63.6/h to 3.7/h was (p=0.0002). 86% of patients met the criteria for adherence to PAP therapy (use 4 hours/night, more than 70% of nights). Initially, before the use of PAP therapy, all cardiac conduction disorders were during sleep and exceeded 3 seconds, with fluctuations from 3.1 to 10.6 seconds. PAP therapy appeared to be effective in all patients: no asystoles, duration of more than 3 seconds, were detected. In obstructive sleep apnea patients with concomitant nighttime cardiac conduction disturbances, the long-term use of PAP therapy is effective and with good adherence.

Polysomnography and Nocturia Evaluations after Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome.

A higher incidence rate of nocturia in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has been observed. We investigated the differences in clinical examinations between OSA patients with and without nocturia, and further compared those with successful and unsuccessful uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). This retrospective study enrolled 103 patients with OSA undergoing UPPP. Patients were diagnosed with OSA by following the 2018 American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) Scoring Manual Version 2.5. Patients were divided into two groups depending on if they urinated more than twice per night. The medical data of body mass index (BMI), nocturia frequency per night, apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), International Prostatic Symptom Score (IPSS), and Overactive Bladder Symptom Score (OABSS) were analyzed before and after uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) surgery. All of the measurements were compared between successful and unsuccessful surgery in the non-nocturia or nocturia groups, respectively. Fifty patients (41 males and nine females) without nocturia were assigned to group 1, and 53 patients (43 males and 10 females) with nocturia were assigned to group 2. Nocturia frequency and post-surgery AHI in group 2 were significantly higher than those in group 1 (p < 0.05). Significant decreases in IPSS and OABSS were observed in the successful surgery subgroup of group 2 (p < 0.05). A significant decrease in post-surgery AHI was observed between unsuccessful and successful surgery in patients with nocturia (p < 0.05), but not in the non-nocturia group (p > 0.05). Although AHI had a significant correlation to nocturia frequency in all OSA patients before UPPP, no significant correlation between AHI reduction and nocturia frequency was found. UPPP appeared to be an effective treatment for nocturia associated with OSA. OSA should be taken into consideration for patients who complain of nocturia syndrome. The relationship of AHI reduction and nocturia improvement after OSA treatment with UPPP is still unclear. In addition, it is necessary to establish the existence of nocturia in patients with OSA, as a result of its high prevalence in OSA patients. UPPP could reduce the symptoms of OSA and could also contribute to a reduction of nocturia even in the unsuccessful surgery group.

The effect of adherence with long-term PAP therapy on the psycho-emotional state of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

Aim. To assess the impact of adherence and effectiveness of long-term positive airway pressure therapy (PAP-therapy) on the clinical and psychological characteristics of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.&#x0D; Materials and methods. The study included 80 patients who were examined in the sleep apnea laboratory of the Myasnikov Institute of Clinical Cardiology of the National Medical Research Center for Cardiology and who have been on PAP-therapy for more than 12 months. The average age of the patients was 65.0 years [59.0; 71.0], body mass index 35.0 kg/m2 [31.0; 38.0], sleep apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) 39.5/h [31.0; 62.6]. The average duration of PAP therapy was 3.5 years [2.0; 6.0], while the minimum use was 1 year, the maximum 15 years. In the sample of patients who came in person, the percentage of days using PAP-therapy was 87.5% [62.0; 98.0] and the average usage time 6.3 hours [5.2; 7.3].&#x0D; Results. On long-term PAP-therapy a persistent decrease in AHI was seen on average from 39.5/h [31.0; 62.6] to 2.7/h [1.2; 6.2], p=0,000. The criteria for good adherence to PAP-therapy (use 4 hours/night, more than 70% of nights) were met by the percentage of days of use by 67.5% of patients, the average time of use by 87.5% of patients. Both criteria for good adherence to PAP-therapy was met by 64.8% of patients. With long-term PAP-therapy, 71.7% of patients met the criteria of effectiveness (AHI5/h), AHI remained 5/h in 22.9% of patients and the average residual AHI was 10/h in 5.4% of patients. Correlation analysis showed associations between the PAP-therapy usage parameters and the severity of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, and sleep quality: percentage of days of use and AHI (r=0.374, p=0.001), average time of use and PSQI (r=-0.438, p=0.000). Patients with a lower adherence to PAP-therapy (63.0% of days [22.0; 96.0] and 3.6 hours [2.4; 4.5] of use) did not differ in daytime sleepiness (ESS 5.0 points [2.0; 9.0] and 5.0 points [3.0; 8.0 ], p=0.891), but had a significantly lower quality of sleep (PSQI): 18.0 points [14.0; 20.0] versus 10.0 points [7.0; 18.0], p=0.004 compared with patients with high adherence to PAP-therapy (98.0% of the days [92.0; 99.0] and 7.9 hours [7.5; 8.2] of use).&#x0D; Conclusions. Patients with the higher adherence to PAP-therapy had significantly better sleep quality. But even the use of PAP-therapy for less than 4 hours is associated with a decrease in daytime sleepiness severity.

Eight-Year Follow-up of Modified Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty in Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

To investigate whether modified uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remained effective after 8 years. Prospective intervention study. Sixty-five patients with OSA were offered re-evaluation with polysomnography and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) 8 years after UPPP. Results were compared with baseline and with a previous 2-year follow-up. Baseline predictors were analyzed with regression analyses. The dropout rate at the 8-year follow-up was 28%. The mean decrease in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) between baseline and the 8-year follow-up was significant, 14.0 events/hour (from 52.9 to 38.9), 27% (P < .001). The mean increase in AHI between the 2-year and the 8-year follow-up was significant, 14.7 events/hour (from 24.2 to 38.9), 61% (P < .0001). Overweight at baseline predicted an AHI at the 8-year follow-up that was 22.9 events higher compared to patients with normal weight (P = .015). An increase in body mass index (BMI) of 1 kg/m2 between baseline and the 8-year follow-up predicted a mean AHI increase of 3.8 events/hour (P = .015). The median decrease in ESS between baseline and the 8-year follow-up was significant, 7 (from 13.0 to 6.0), 54% (P < .0001). The median increase in ESS between the 2-year and the 8-year follow-up was not significant, 1.0 (from 5.0 to 6.0), 20%. Modified UPPP was effective as a long-term treatment for OSA in selected patients, although the effect on AHI decreased over time. Daytime sleepiness remained improved even in the long term. High BMI at baseline and an increase in BMI predicted a reduced long-term respiratory outcome. 3 Laryngoscope, 131:E307-E313, 2021.

Upper airway volumetric changes of obstructive sleep apnoea patients treated with oral appliances: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder, attributed to the collapse of the pharyngeal walls and the subsequent complete or partial upper airway obstruction. Among different treatment options for OSA, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, and oral appliances (OAs) have been used, with various outcomes and side effects. The aim of this study was to summarize current knowledge in an evidence-based manner regarding the upper airway volume increase of OSA patients while treated with OAs. Electronic search was conducted in Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, up to May 2020. Studies were selected after the application of predetermined eligibility criteria. Mean airway volume differences and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated, using the random effects model. Sensitivity, exploratory, and meta-regression analyses were also implemented. Eleven studies filled the inclusion criteria and were included in the systematic review, while 10 of them were suitable for meta-analysis. In total, 291 patients were included, with mean upper airway volume increase of 1.95 cm3 (95% CI, 1.37-2.53; P < 0.001) with Mandibular Advancement Devices in place. In all studies, post-treatment Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) was either <10 events/hour or was reduced by more than 50% from baseline levels. A greater increase of the velopharynx volume was observed, regarding airway compartments. Treatment with OAs in OSA may lead to a significant increase of the upper airway volume with a subsequent decrease of AHI. The velopharynx seems to be affected the most from OA therapy.

0628 An Observational Report of Clinical Outcomes Among Veterans with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treated with Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation

Abstract Introduction The efficacy of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy in the management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is limited by inadequate patient adherence. Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) is an FDA approved PAP-alternate surgical treatment option that is available for patients with poor PAP tolerance. The purpose of this pilot study was to review outcome measures and adherence data for patients treated with HNS therapy in a military veteran population. Methods Methodology involved a retrospective chart review of 30 PAP intolerant cases referred for HNS treatment over the course of 2 years. The inclusion criteria were Body Mass Index (BMI) &amp;lt; 35 kg/m2, Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI) of 15-65/hour and drug induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) showing antero-posterior pharyngeal collapse. Qualified veterans proceeded to HNS implantation. Variables for analysis included BMI, Epworth sleep scale (ESS), DISE results, pre- and post-treatment AHI and adherence data. Results Of the 30 veterans, 17 proceeded to DISE. 15 had partial or complete AP collapse and 2 had concentric collapse. 12 veterans proceeded to HNS implantation. 6 veterans who completed HNS titration studies showed an average improvement of 77% from baseline AHI. There was significant decrease in mean AHI from 43.95/hour to 10.52/hour. The mean ESS decreased from 13 to 11. The mean compliance was 6.66 hours/night. Conclusion This limited veteran observational study supports that HNS is an effective treatment option for the management of PAP-intolerant patients with OSA. Our preliminary data suggests improved treatment adherence. Future prospective large-scale cohort studies should be considered. Support The authors declare no conflicts of interest nor any financial support

Sleep surgery in syndromic and neurologically impaired children.

To examine surgery performed for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children with syndromic or neurologic comorbidities. Medical records of 375 children with OSA were retrospectively reviewed, including 142 patients with trisomy 21, 105 with cerebral palsy, 53 with muscular dystrophy, 32 with spinal muscular atrophy, 18 with mucopolysaccharidoses, 14 with achondroplasia, and 11 with Prader-Willi. Apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), complications, length of postoperative stay, and endoscopic findings. 228 patients received 297 surgical interventions, with the remainder undergoing observation or positive pressure ventilation. Adenoidectomy was the most common procedure performed (92.1% of patients), followed by tonsillectomy (91.6%). Average AHI decreased following tonsillectomy, from 12.4 to 5.7 (p=0.002). The most common DISE finding was the tongue base causing epiglottic retroflexion. Lingual tonsillectomy also resulted in an insignificant decrease in the AHI. Adenotonsillectomy, when there is hypertrophy, remains the mainstay of management of syndromic and neurologically-impaired children with OSA. However, additional interventions are often required, due to incomplete resolution of the OSA. DISE is valuable in identifying remaining sites of obstruction and guiding future management.

Objective and subjective long term outcome of maxillomandibular advancement in obstructive sleep apnea

Study objectivesTo evaluate the objective and subjective long-term outcome of maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) in Far-East Asian patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). MethodsThis is a long-term follow-up study to evaluate the treatment outcome of MMA in OSA patients by objective polysomnography (PSG) and subjective questionnaires (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index-PSQI, Insomnia Severity Index-ISI, Beck Anxiety Inventory-BAI, Beck Depression Inventory-BDI, Epworth Sleepiness scale-ESS, and Short Form-36 Quality of Life–SF–36). Evaluation was done before surgery and we followed these patients one and two years after surgery. We also assessed the neurocognitive function by Continuous performance test (CPT) and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) before and after MMA. ResultsA total of 82 patients with OSA (female = 19) were enrolled and 53 participants (75.7% men, age 35.66 ± 11.66 years [mean ± SD], BMI = 24.80 ± 3.29) completed the two-year follow-up. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) decreased from a mean of 34.78 ± 26.01 to 3.61 ± 2.79 and 7.43 ± 6.70 events/hour (p = 0.007) at the first and second year evaluation. There was significant improvement in PSG (especially respiratory profile), questionnaires (PSQI and ISI total score), and neurocognitive testing (attention and executive function) after MMA. Meanwhile, no major complication such as avascular necrosis of bonny segments, facial nerve injury, blindness or compromise of airway was found after surgery. ConclusionsMMA is a clinically effective treatment for patients with moderate-to-severe OSA as demonstrated by significant long-term decrease in AHI and improvement in neurocognitive testing.

Effect of acetazolamide on susceptibility to central sleep apnea in chronic spinal cord injury.

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is an established risk factor for central sleep apnea. Acetazolamide (ACZ), a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor, has been shown to decrease the frequency of central apnea by inducing mild metabolic acidosis. We hypothesized that ACZ would decrease the propensity to develop hypocapnic central apnea and decrease the apneic threshold. We randomized 16 participants with sleep-disordered breathing (8 SCI and 8 able-bodied controls) to receive ACZ (500 mg twice a day for 3 days) or placebo with a 1-wk washout before crossing over to the other drug arm. Study nights included polysomnography and determination of the hypocapnic apneic threshold and CO2 reserve using noninvasive ventilation. For participants with spontaneous central apnea, CO2 was administered until central apnea was abolished, and CO2 reserve was measured as the difference in end-tidal Pco2 () before and after. Steady-state plant gain, the response of end-tidal Pco2 to changes in ventilation, was calculated from and V̇e ratio during stable sleep. Controller gain, the response of ventilatory drive to changes in end-tidal Pco2, was defined as the ratio of change in V̇e between control and hypopnea to the ΔCO2 during stable non-rapid eye movement sleep. Treatment with ACZ for three days resulted in widening of the CO2 reserve (-4.0 ± 1.2 vs. -3.0 ± 0.7 mmHg for able-bodied, -3.4 ± 1.9 vs. -2.2 ± 2.2 mmHg for SCI, P < 0.0001), and a corresponding decrease in the hypocapnic apnea threshold (28.3 ± 5.2 vs. 37.1 ± 5.6 mmHg for able-bodied, 29.9 ± 5.4 vs. 34.8 ± 6.9 mmHg for SCI, P < 0.0001), respectively. ACZ significantly reduced plant gain when compared with placebo (4.1 ± 1.7 vs. 5.4 ± 1.8 mmHg/L min for able-bodied, 4.1 ± 2.0 vs. 5.1 ± 1.7 mmHg·L-1·min for SCI, P < 0.01). Acetazolamide decreased apnea-hypopnea index (28.8 ± 22.9 vs. 39.3 ± 24.1 events/h; P = 0.05), central apnea index (0.6 ± 1.5 vs. 6.3 ± 13.1 events/h; P = 0.05), and oxyhemoglobin desaturation index (7.5 ± 8.3 vs. 19.2 ± 15.2 events/h; P = 0.01) compared with placebo. Our results suggest that treatment with ACZ decreases susceptibility to hypocapnic central apnea due to decreased plant gain. Acetazolamide may attenuate central sleep apnea and improve nocturnal oxygen saturation, but its clinical utility requires further investigation in a larger sample of patients.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Tetraplegia is a risk factor for central sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and is associated with narrow CO2 reserve (a marker of susceptibility to central apnea). Treatment with high-dose acetazolamide for 3 days decreased susceptibility to hypocapnic central apnea and reduced the frequency of central respiratory events during sleep. Acetazolamide may play a therapeutic role in alleviating central SDB in patients with cervical spinal cord injury, but larger clinical trials are needed.

Mandibular advancement device: Effectiveness and dental side effects. A real-life study

ABSTRACT Objective: To investigate the effectiveness and adverse events of mandibular advancement device (MAD) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and to identify predictive clinical parameters for therapy success. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 318 patients indicated for MAD therapy, observed in a large teaching hospital in the Netherlands. Results: Ninety-seven patients (65.5%) achieved therapy success. A significant decrease in AHI (apnea–hypopnea index) and OSA-related symptoms was observed. None of the analyzed OSA-characteristics proved to be a significant predictive parameter for therapy success. Side-effects were reported in 54.4% of the patients, with temporomandibular dysfunction (27.0%) being the most frequent. Seventy-four patients (23.3%) discontinued treatment due to side-effects or therapy failure. Conclusion: MAD proved to be effective in the treatment of OSA and can be a viable alternative to CPAP in patients with severe OSA. Side-effects were relatively common and led to termination of therapy in 1 out of 10 cases.

Development and evaluation of myofunctional therapy support program(MTSP) based on self-efficacy theory for patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

The aim of this study is to determine the impact of myofunctional therapy support program (MTSP) based on self-efficacy theory compared to no support during myofunctional therapy (MT) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Thirty-one patients with OSA were randomized into two groups: 12 weeks of treatment with the MTSP developed in this study (experimental group) and one education session of MT (control group). Patients were evaluated at the beginning and the end of the study using questionnaires (self-efficacy scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, snoring intensity and frequency, dry mouth) and polysomnography. The control (n = 15) and experimental (n = 16) groups had similar results for all variables at study entry. The control group showed no significant change in any variables during the study period. In contrast, the experimental group showed a significant increase in self-efficacy 61.38 ± 9.50 to 65.56 ± 10.89 (p = 0.020) and a significant decrease in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) 19.51 ± 11.41 to 14.11 ± 9.13 (p = 0.039), daytime sleepiness 9.88 ± 3.84 to 7.56 ± 3.42 (p = 0.028), snoring intensity 5.57 ± 3.13 to 4.44 ± 2.68 (p = 0.008), and dry mouth 6.44 ± 3.14 to 3.63 ± 2.33 (p = 0.005), compared to the baseline. No significant change in lowest SaO2 (p = 0.969), sleep quality (p = 0.307), and snoring frequency (p = 0.321) during the study period. The intensive and interactive intervention of MTSP improved the self-efficacy of OSA patients, and consequently, resulted in sign and symptom relief, such as AHI, daytime sleepiness, snoring and dry mouth. The MTSP was dedicated to the nurse practitioner to improve the way to dispense the MT. This research has implications for the successful treatment of OSA.

Development and evaluation of myofunctional therapy support program (MTSP) based on self-efficacy theory for patients with obstructive sleep apnea

The aim of this study is to determine the impact of myofunctional therapy support program (MTSP) based on self-efficacy theory compared to no support during myofunctional therapy (MT) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Thirty-one patients with OSA were randomized into two groups: 12 weeks of treatment with the MTSP developed in this study (experimental group) and one education session of MT (control group). Patients were evaluated at the beginning and the end of the study using questionnaires (self-efficacy scale, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, snoring intensity and frequency, dry mouth) and polysomnography. The control (n = 15) and experimental (n = 16) groups had similar results for all variables at study entry. The control group showed no significant change in any variables during the study period. In contrast, the experimental group showed a significant increase in self-efficacy 61.38 ± 9.50 to 65.56 ± 10.89 (p = 0.020) and a significant decrease in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) 19.51 ± 11.41 to 14.11 ± 9.13 (p = 0.039), daytime sleepiness 9.88 ± 3.84 to 7.56 ± 3.42 (p = 0.028), snoring intensity 5.57 ± 3.13 to 4.44 ± 2.68 (p = 0.008), and dry mouth 6.44 ± 3.14 to 3.63 ± 2.33 (p = 0.005), compared to the baseline. No significant change in lowest SaO2 (p = 0.969), sleep quality (p = 0.307), and snoring frequency (p = 0.321) during the study period. The intensive and interactive intervention of MTSP improved the self-efficacy of OSA patients, and consequently, resulted in sign and symptom relief, such as AHI, daytime sleepiness, snoring and dry mouth. The MTSP was dedicated to the nurse practitioner to improve the way to dispense the MT. This research has implications for the successful treatment of OSA.

Results of the ADHERE upper airway stimulation registry and predictors of therapy efficacy.

Objective/HypothesisThe ADHERE Registry is a multicenter prospective observational study following outcomes of upper airway stimulation (UAS) therapy in patients who have failed continuous positive airway pressure therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of this registry and purpose of this article were to examine the outcomes of patients receiving UAS for treatment of OSA.Study DesignCohort Study.MethodsDemographic and sleep study data collection occurred at baseline, implantation visit, post‐titration (6 months), and final visit (12 months). Patient and physician reported outcomes were also collected. Post hoc univariate and multivariate analysis was used to identify predictors of therapy response, defined as ≥50% decrease in Apnea‐Hypopnea Index (AHI) and AHI ≤20 at the 12‐month visit.ResultsThe registry has enrolled 1,017 patients from October 2016 through February 2019. Thus far, 640 patients have completed their 6‐month follow‐up and 382 have completed the 12‐month follow‐up. After 12 months, median AHI was reduced from 32.8 (interquartile range [IQR], 23.6–45.0) to 9.5 (IQR, 4.0–18.5); mean, 35.8 ± 15.4 to 14.2 ± 15.0, P < .0001. Epworth Sleepiness Scale was similarly improved from 11.0 (IQR, 7–16) to 7.0 (IQR, 4–11); mean, 11.4 ± 5.6 to 7.2 ± 4.8, P < .0001. Therapy usage was 5.6 ± 2.1 hours per night after 12 months. In a multivariate model, only female sex and lower baseline body mass index remained as significant predictors of therapy response.ConclusionsAcross a multi‐institutional study, UAS therapy continues to show significant improvement in subjective and objective OSA outcomes. This analysis shows that the therapy effect is durable and adherence is high.Level of Evidence2 Laryngoscope, 130:1333–1338, 2020

Short-Term Assessment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Remission Rate after Sleeve Gastrectomy: a Cohort Study.

Severe obesity is associated with a high prevalence of moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSA). Bariatric surgery has been shown to effectively reduce excess weight and comorbidities. We evaluated the remission rate of moderate-to-severe OSA (apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥ 15) following sleeve gastrectomy. We performed a single-center retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent preoperative polysomnography (PSG) or polygraphy before primary sleeve gastrectomy. Patients with moderate-to-severe OSA treated by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) also underwent postoperative PSG. Bivariate analysis was performed to evaluate the criteria associated with remission of moderate-to-severe OSA. From 2013 to 2018, 39 of 162 patients (24.1%) scheduled for sleeve gastrectomy (SG) presented moderate-to-severe OSA requiring CPAP. Postoperative PSG was performed in 36 patients a mean of 9.9 ± 6.1months after SG. Mean BMI decreased from 47.4 ± 8.4 to 36.3 ± 7.1kg/m2 (p < 0.001), and all patients reported clinical improvement of OSA symptoms. A remission of moderate-to-severe OSA was observed in 72.2% of patients with a mean decrease of AHI from 45.8 events/h to 11.3 events/h (p < 0.001). Postoperative neck circumference was the only factor associated with OSA remission. SG is associated with a rapid improvement of moderate-to-severe OSA partially as a result of a reduction of neck circumference. However, the absence of correlation with excess weight loss suggests that other weight-independent factors may also be involved.

Benefit of Intensive Atorvastatin Therapy in Sleep Apnea Syndrome with Cardiovascular Disease

Background: In addition to its hypolipidemic effect, atorvastatin therapy has multiple beneficial effects in patients with cardiovascular disorders. We evaluated the effect of intensive atorvastatin therapy on sleep apnea syndrome (SAS). Methods: Eighteen patients with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ≥5, as assessed by portable monitor, received oral atorvastatin 10 mg/d in the first week and 20 mg/d in the second and third weeks as the preliminary group. Sixteen patients with AHI≥15, as assessed by laboratory polysomnography, received 20 mg/d for two months followed by 40 mg/d for the next two months as the intensive group. If AHI did not reduce by half or to < 15, patients received 60 mg/d from the 5th month onwards. Results: In the preliminary group, after short-term moderate-dose therapy, AHI was significantly decreased (21.7±13.6 vs. 13.6±12.9, P=0.015), along with a significant increase in average arterial oxyhemoglobin saturation (SaO2) (93.1±2.0 % vs. 93.8±1.2 %, P=0.039). In the intensive group, after mid-term titrated intensive therapy, there was a significantly greater reduction in AHI (36.6±19.8 vs. 11.5±11.5, P=0.0004) with increase in average SaO2 (93.6±2.1% vs. 94.0±1.2%, P=0.017) and minimum SaO2 (71.3±9.5 % vs. 84.3±7.7%, P<0.0001). During follow-up of intensive therapy group, 8 patients (50%) showed a decrease in AHI to < 5 events/h. The degree of AHI reduction and SaO2 amelioration in the intensive group was greater than that in the preliminary group (P<0.01). Conclusions: Atorvastatin therapy may help reduce AHI and ameliorate hypoxia in patients with SAS. Mid-term intensive dose atorvastatin therapy may be better than short-term moderate dose in this respect. Funding Statement: Financial support was granted by a Natural Science Fund (09ZR1427500) of the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality and a Project for Public Technology Study and Social Development (2010C33SA390002) of Zhejiang Province. Declaration of Interests: No conflict of interest exists for any of the authors. Ethics Approval Statement: Our study was approved by Local Ethical Committee in April 1st 2010 (No 201003, Ethical Committee, Yueqing Hospital, Wenzhou Medical University).

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator Outcomes for Patients Outside the U.S. FDA Recommendations

The hypoglossal nerve stimulator (HGNS) is currently approved for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in patients with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of >15 to ≤65 events/hour, and a central apnea index (CAI) <25% of the AHI, no complete concentric collapse on drug-induced sleep endoscopy, and a recommended body mass index (BMI) <32 kg/m2 . We present 18 patients implanted as a salvage procedure despite being outside these guidelines. We included all patients who underwent HGNS but who did not meet all FDA guidelines. Demographic data, previous OSA treatments, polysomnographic (PSG) parameters from baseline and HGNS titration PSG, Epworth sleepiness score (ESS), and BMI were compared before and after surgery. Eighteen patients were identified: 94.4% male, median age 63 years. Seven underwent previous sleep surgery. Four had an AHI <15 (mean 10.5 events/hour), four had an AHI >65 (mean 86.9 events/hour), two had an elevated CAI (mean 31.3% of AHI), and 12 had a BMI >32 kg/m2 (range 32.1-39.1). Median AHI decreased from 25.3 to 3.75 events/hour on titration polysomnography (P = .0006), oxyhemoglobin saturation nadir increased from 82% to 88.5% (P = .0001) and median ESS dropped from 11 to 7.5 (P = .0016). Fifteen (83.3%) patients achieved surgical success (decrease in AHI >50% and AHI <20 events/hour) and 12 (66.7%) had an AHI <5 events/hour. Neither patient with CAI >25% was successfully treated. Median adherence = 33.5 hours/week. Our success rate for patients outside the Food and Drug Administration guidelines for HGNS (67%) was similar to the 1-year STAR trial results (66%). Future studies are necessary to consider expansion of these guidelines. 4 Laryngoscope, 130:866-872, 2020.

Internight Variability of Apnea-Hypopnea Index in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Ambulatory Polysomnography.

Rationale: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) experience respiratory events with greater frequency and severity while in the supine sleeping position. Postural preference (associated with the sleep monitoring device) and “first night effect” could explain a night-to-night variability in OSA severity.Objectives: We evaluated the variability of internight polysomnography (PSG) in a large group of OSA patients and explored factors explaining this variability.Methods: 188 patients referred for probable OSA (aged 54.9 ± 11.8 y) underwent two consecutive nights of at-home PSG. The effect of age, gender, obesity, neck circumference, sleep position and sleep parameters were considered to explain changes in respiratory parameters.Main Results: The mean apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and oxygen desaturation index (ODI) were respectively, 36.3 ± 27.5 and 22.0 ± 22.7 in the first night, with a tendency to decrease during the second night. While in mild cases (5 ≤ AHI < 15) there was a significant increase in AHI related to an increase in dorsal position time during the second night, there were no changes in moderate cases (15 ≤ AHI < 30); and in severe cases (AHI ≥ 30) there was a significant decrease in both AHI and ODI during the second night independent of sleep position.Conclusion: The internight variability in AHI and ODI was related to changes in sleep structure with a contribution of indices of sleep fragmentation and dorsal position. Since the changes were greater in mild OSA cases, a second night could be routinely proposed in cases with relevant clinical uncertainty.