Obstructive sleep apnoea: investigations, diagnostic techniques and predicting surgical success.

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is diagnosed using a sleep study or Polysomnogram. The paper discusses the role of imaging and other examination techniques to assess the nature of OSA and what treatment you can offer a patient. When should a patient be offered a mandibular advancement splint? What type should be used? How do we know it is working? Surgical treatment of OSA is a controversial area. This paper provides an understanding of which patients may benefit from surgery and when is an appropriate time to refer. An overview of the three main types of surgery and their outcomes are discussed. Less experienced practitioners will feel better able to talk to patients about OSA and for those with a special interest in OSA there is new material to stimulate further discussion.