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11 pages, 2255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation in Adults with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Undergoing Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting in the RICCADSA Cohort

by Yüksel Peker, Henrik Holtstrand-Hjälm, Yeliz Celik, Helena Glantz and Erik Thunström

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(9), 2459; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11092459 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2315

Abstract

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) occurs in 20–50% of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is also common in adults with CAD, and may contribute to POAF as well to the reoccurrence of AF [...] Read more.

Postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF) occurs in 20–50% of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is also common in adults with CAD, and may contribute to POAF as well to the reoccurrence of AF in patients at long-term. In the current secondary analysis of the Randomized Intervention with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) in Coronary Artery Disease and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (RICCADSA) trial (Trial Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; No: NCT 00519597), we included 147 patients with CABG, who underwent a home sleep apnea testing, in average 73 ± 30 days after the surgical intervention. POAF was defined as a new-onset AF occurring within the 30 days following the CABG. POAF was observed among 48 (32.7%) patients, occurring within the first week among 45 of those cases. The distribution of the apnea-hypopnea-index (AHI) categories < 5.0 events/h (no-OSA); 5.0–14.9 events/h (mild OSA); 15.0–29.9 events/h (moderate OSA); and ≥30 events/h (severe OSA), was 4.2%, 14.6%, 35.4%, and 45.8%, in the POAF group, and 16.2%, 17.2%, 39.4%, and 27.3%, respectively, in the no-POAF group. In a multivariate logistic regression model, there was a significant risk increase for POAF across the AHI categories, with the highest odds ratio (OR) for severe OSA (OR 6.82, 95% confidence interval 1.31–35.50; p = 0.023) vs. no-OSA, independent of age, sex, and body-mass-index. In the entire cohort, 90% were on β-blockers according to the clinical routines, they all had sinus rhythm on the electrocardiogram at baseline before the study start, and 28 out of 40 patients with moderate to severe OSA (70%) were allocated to CPAP. During a median follow-up period of 67 months, two patients (none with POAF) were hospitalized due to AF. To conclude, severe OSA was significantly associated with POAF in patients with CAD undergoing CABG. However, none of those individuals had an AF-reoccurrence at long term, and whether CPAP should be considered as an add-on treatment to β-blockers in secondary prevention models for OSA patients presenting POAF after CABG requires further studies in larger cohorts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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9 pages, 1000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

TORS as Part of Multilevel Surgery in OSA: The Importance of Careful Patient Selection and Outcomes

by Peter M. Baptista, Natalia Diaz Zufiaurre, Octavio Garaycochea, Juan Manuel Alcalde Navarrete, Antonio Moffa, Lucrezia Giorgi, Manuele Casale, Carlos O’Connor-Reina and Guillermo Plaza

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(4), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11040990 - 14 Feb 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2394

Abstract

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a relatively young technique principally devised for managing apneas in the tongue base area. This study summarizes and presents our personal experience with TORS for OSA treatment, with the aim to provide information [...] Read more.

Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a relatively young technique principally devised for managing apneas in the tongue base area. This study summarizes and presents our personal experience with TORS for OSA treatment, with the aim to provide information regarding its safety, efficacy, and postoperative complications. A retrospective study was conducted on patients undergoing TORS with lingual tonsillectomy through the Da Vinci robot. The effectiveness of the surgical procedure was assessed employing the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and overnight polysomnography with the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI). A total of 57 patients were included. Eighteen patients (31.6%) had undergone previous surgery. The mean time of TORS procedure was 30 min. Base of tongue (BOT) management was associated with other procedures in all patients: pharyngoplasty (94%), tonsillectomy (66%), and septoplasty (58%). At 6 months follow-up visit, there was a significant improvement in AHI values (from 38.62 ± 20.36 to 24.33 ± 19.68) and ESS values (from 14.25 ± 3.97 to 8.25 ± 3.3). The surgical success rate was achieved in 35.5% of patients. The most frequent major complication was bleeding, with the need for operative intervention in three cases (5.3%). The most common minor complications were mild dehydration and pain. TORS for OSA treatment appears to be an effective and safe procedure for adequately selected patients looking for an alternative therapy to CPAP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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10 pages, 743 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure on Lipid Profiles in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Meta-Analysis

by Baixin Chen, Miaolan Guo, Yüksel Peker, Neus Salord, Luciano F. Drager, Geraldo Lorenzi-Filho, Xiangdong Tang and Yun Li

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(3), 596; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11030596 - 25 Jan 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3097

Abstract

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with dyslipidemia. However, the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on lipid profiles are unclear. Methods: PubMed/Medline, Embase and Cochrane were searched up to July 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CPAP versus controls [...] Read more.

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with dyslipidemia. However, the effects of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment on lipid profiles are unclear. Methods: PubMed/Medline, Embase and Cochrane were searched up to July 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of CPAP versus controls with ≥4 weeks treatment and reported pre- and post-intervention lipid profiles were included. Weighted mean difference (WMD) was used to assess the effect size. Meta-regression was used to explore the potential moderators of post-CPAP treatment changes in lipid profiles. Results: A total of 14 RCTs with 1792 subjects were included. CPAP treatment was associated with a significant decrease in total cholesterol compared to controls (WMD = −0.098 mmol/L, 95% CI = −0.169 to −0.027, p = 0.007, I² = 0.0%). No significant changes in triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein nor low-density lipoprotein were observed after CPAP treatment (all p > 0.2). Furthermore, meta-regression models showed that age, gender, body mass index, daytime sleepiness, OSA severity, follow-up study duration, CPAP compliance nor patients with cardiometabolic disease did not moderate the effects of CPAP treatment on lipid profiles (all p > 0.05). Conclusions: CPAP treatment decreases total cholesterol at a small magnitude but has no effect on other markers of dyslipidemia in OSA patients. Future studies of CPAP therapy should target combined treatment strategies with lifestyle modifications and/or anti-hyperlipidemic medications in the primary as well as secondary cardiovascular prevention models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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9 pages, 1322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CPAP Intervention as an Add-On Treatment to Lipid-Lowering Medication in Coronary Artery Disease Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the RICCADSA Trial

by Yeliz Celik, Baran Balcan and Yüksel Peker

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(1), 273; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11010273 - 5 Jan 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2438

Abstract

Dyslipidaemia is a well-known risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), and reducing lipid levels is essential for secondary prevention in management of these high-risk individuals. Dyslipidaemia is common also in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is [...] Read more.

Dyslipidaemia is a well-known risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD), and reducing lipid levels is essential for secondary prevention in management of these high-risk individuals. Dyslipidaemia is common also in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the first line treatment of OSA. However, evidence of a possible lipid-lowering effect of CPAP in CAD patients with OSA is scarce. We addressed the effect of CPAP as an add-on treatment to lipid-lowering medication in a CAD cohort with concomitant OSA. This study was a secondary analysis of the RICCADSA trial (Trial Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov; No: NCT 00519597), that was conducted in Sweden between 2005 and 2013. In total, 244 revascularized CAD patients with nonsleepy OSA (apnea–hypopnea index ≥ 15/h, Epworth Sleepiness Scale score < 10) were randomly assigned to CPAP or no-CPAP. Circulating triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (all in mg/dL) were measured at baseline and 12 months after randomization. The desired TG levels were defined as circulating TG < 150 mg/dL, and LDL levels were targeted as <70 mg/dL according to the recent guidelines of the European Cardiology Society and the European Atherosclerosis Society. A total of 196 patients with available blood samples at baseline and 12-month follow-up were included (94 randomized to CPAP, 102 to no-CPAP). We found no significant between-group differences in circulating levels of TG, TC, HDL and LDL at baseline and after 12 months as well as in the amount of change from baseline. However, there was a significant decline regarding the proportion of patients with the desired TG levels from 87.2% to 77.2% in the CPAP group (p = 0.022), whereas there was an increase from 84.3% to 88.2% in the no-CPAP group (n.s.). The desired LDL levels remained low after 12 months in both groups (15.1% vs. 17.2% in CPAP group, and 20.8% vs. 18.8% in no-CPAP group; n.s.). In a multiple linear regression model, the increase in the TG levels was predicted by the increase in body-mass-index (β = 4.1; 95% confidence interval (1.0–7.1); p = 0.009) adjusted for age, sex and CPAP usage (hours/night). CPAP had no lipid-lowering effect in this revascularized cohort with OSA. An increase in body-mass-index predicted the increase in TG levels after 12 months, suggesting that lifestyle modifications should be given priority in adults with CAD and OSA, regardless of CPAP treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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19 pages, 4463 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sleep Apnea Classification Algorithm Development Using a Machine-Learning Framework and Bag-of-Features Derived from Electrocardiogram Spectrograms

by Cheng-Yu Lin, Yi-Wen Wang, Febryan Setiawan, Nguyen Thi Hoang Trang and Che-Wei Lin

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(1), 192; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11010192 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3556

Abstract

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) and electrocardiogram (ECG)-derived respiration (EDR) have been used to detect sleep apnea (SA) for decades. The present study proposes an SA-detection algorithm using a machine-learning framework and bag-of-features (BoF) derived from an ECG spectrogram. Methods: This study was [...] Read more.

Background: Heart rate variability (HRV) and electrocardiogram (ECG)-derived respiration (EDR) have been used to detect sleep apnea (SA) for decades. The present study proposes an SA-detection algorithm using a machine-learning framework and bag-of-features (BoF) derived from an ECG spectrogram. Methods: This study was verified using overnight ECG recordings from 83 subjects with an average apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) 29.63 (/h) derived from the Physionet Apnea-ECG and National Cheng Kung University Hospital Sleep Center database. The study used signal preprocessing to filter noise and artifacts, ECG time–frequency transformation using continuous wavelet transform (CWT), BoF feature generation, machine-learning classification using support vector machine (SVM), ensemble learning (EL), k-nearest neighbor (KNN) classification, and cross-validation. The time length of the spectrogram was set as 10 and 60 s to examine the required minimum spectrogram window time length to achieve satisfactory accuracy. Specific frequency bands of 0.1–50, 8–50, 0.8–10, and 0–0.8 Hz were also extracted to generate the BoF to determine the band frequency best suited for SA detection. Results: The five-fold cross-validation accuracy using the BoF derived from the ECG spectrogram with 10 and 60 s time windows were 90.5% and 91.4% for the 0.1–50 Hz and 8–50 Hz frequency bands, respectively. Conclusion: An SA-detection algorithm utilizing BoF and a machine-learning framework was successfully developed in this study with satisfactory classification accuracy and high temporal resolution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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12 pages, 1485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Effect of Genioglossus Muscle Strengthening on Obstructive Sleep Apnea Outcomes

by Maryam Maghsoudipour, Brandon Nokes, Naa-Oye Bosompra, Rachel Jen, Yanru Li, Stacie Moore, Pamela N. DeYoung, Janelle Fine, Bradley A. Edwards, Dillon Gilbertson, Robert Owens, Todd Morgan and Atul Malhotra

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(19), 4554; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10194554 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2432

Abstract

The genioglossus is a major upper airway dilator muscle. Our goal was to assess the efficacy of upper airway muscle training on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as an adjunct treatment. Sixty-eight participants with OSA (AHI > 10/h) were recruited from our clinic. They [...] Read more.

The genioglossus is a major upper airway dilator muscle. Our goal was to assess the efficacy of upper airway muscle training on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) as an adjunct treatment. Sixty-eight participants with OSA (AHI > 10/h) were recruited from our clinic. They fall into the following categories: (a) Treated with Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP), (n = 21), (b) Previously failed APAP therapy (Untreated), (n = 25), (c) Treated with Mandibular Advancement Splint (MAS), (n = 22). All subjects were given a custom-made tongue strengthening device. We conducted a prospective, randomized, controlled study examining the effect of upper airway muscle training. In each subgroup, subjects were randomized to muscle training (volitional protrusion against resistance) or sham group (negligible resistance), with a 1:1 ratio over 3 months of treatment. In the baseline and the final visit, subjects completed home sleep apnea testing, Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), SF-36 (36-Item Short Form Survey), and Psychomotor Vigilance Test (PVT). Intervention (muscle training) did not affect the AHI (Apnea-Hypopnea Index), (p-values > 0.05). Based on PSQI, ESS, SF-36 scores, and PVT parameters, the changes between the intervention and sham groups were not significant, and the changes were not associated with the type of treatment (p-value > 0.05). The effectiveness of upper airway muscle training exercise as an adjunct treatment requires further study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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11 pages, 2000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Telemedicine Strategy to Rescue CPAP Therapy in Sleep Apnea Patients with Low Treatment Adherence: A Pilot Study

by Onintza Garmendia, Ramon Farré, Concepción Ruiz, Monique Suarez-Girón, Marta Torres, Raisa Cebrian, Laura Saura, Carmen Monasterio, Miguel A. Negrín and Josep M. Montserrat

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(18), 4123; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10184123 - 13 Sep 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3478

Abstract

Patients with sleep apnea are usually treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This therapy is very effective if the patient′s adherence is satisfactory. However, although CPAP adherence is usually acceptable during the first months of therapy, it progressively decreases, with a considerable [...] Read more.

Patients with sleep apnea are usually treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This therapy is very effective if the patient′s adherence is satisfactory. However, although CPAP adherence is usually acceptable during the first months of therapy, it progressively decreases, with a considerable number of patients accepting average treatment duration below the effectiveness threshold (4 h/night). Herein, our aim was to describe and evaluate a novel telemedicine strategy for rescuing CPAP treatment in patients with low adherence after several months/years of treatment. This two-week intervention includes (1) patient support using a smartphone application, phone and voice recorder messages to be answered by a nurse, and (2) daily transmission and analysis of signals from the CPAP device and potential variation of nasal pressure if required. On average, at the end of the intervention, median CPAP adherence considerably increased by 2.17 h/night (from 3.07 to 5.24 h/night). Interestingly, the procedure was able to markedly rescue CPAP adherence: the number of patients with poor adherence (<4 h/night) was considerably reduced from 38 to 7. After one month, adherence improvement was maintained (median 5.09 h/night), and only 13 patients had poor adherence (<4 h/night). This telemedicine intervention (103€ per included patient) is a cost-effective tool for substantially increasing the number of patients with CPAP adherence above the minimum threshold for achieving positive therapeutic effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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15 pages, 42917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Pharyngoplasty with a Dorsal Palatal Flap Expansion: The Evaluation of a Modified Surgical Treatment Method for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome—A Preliminary Report

by Ewa Olszewska, Piotr Fiedorczuk, Adam Stróżyński, Agnieszka Polecka, Ewa Roszkowska and B. Tucker Woodson

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(16), 3746; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10163746 - 23 Aug 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2325

Abstract

Surgical techniques for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) constantly evolve. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of a new surgical approach for an OSAS pharyngoplasty with a dorsal palatal flap expansion (PDPFEx). A total of 21 participants (mean age 49.9; [...] Read more.

Surgical techniques for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) constantly evolve. This study aims to assess the effectiveness and safety of a new surgical approach for an OSAS pharyngoplasty with a dorsal palatal flap expansion (PDPFEx). A total of 21 participants (mean age 49.9; mean BMI 32.5) underwent a type III sleep study, an endoscopy of the upper airways, a filled medical history, a visual analog scale for snoring loudness, an Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and a Short Form Health Survey-36 questionnaire. A follow-up re-evaluation was performed 11 ± 4.9 months post-operatively. The study group (4 with moderate, 17 with severe OSAS) showed an improvement in all measured sleep study characteristics (p < 0.05), apnea-hypopnea index (pre-median 45.7 to 29.3 post-operatively, p = 0.009, r = 0.394), oxygen desaturation index (pre-median 47.7 and 23.3 post-operatively, p = 0.0005, r = 0.812), mean oxygen saturation (median 92% pre-operatively and median 94% post-operatively, p = 0.0002, r = 0.812), lowest oxygen saturation (p = 0.0001, r = 0.540) and time of sleep spent with blood oxygen saturation less than 90% (p = 0.0001, r = 0.485). The most commonly reported complications were throat dryness (11 patients) and minor difficulties in swallowing (5 patients transient, 3 patients constant). We conclude that a PDPFEx is a promising new surgical method; however, further controlled studies are needed to demonstrate its safety and efficacy for OSAS treatment in adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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12 pages, 1110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Transoral Robotic Tongue Base Surgery and Palate Surgery in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Modified Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty versus Barbed Reposition Pharyngoplasty

by Yung-An Tsou, Chun-Chieh Hsu, Liang-Chun Shih, Tze-Chieh Lin, Chien-Jen Chiu, Vincent Hui-Chi Tien, Ming-Hsui Tsai and Wen-Dien Chang

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(14), 3169; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10143169 - 18 Jul 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4623

Abstract

Background: Successful surgery outcomes are limited to moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome. Multilevel collapse at retropalatal and retroglossal areas is often found during the drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE). Therefore, multilevel surgery is considered for these patients. The aim of our [...] Read more.

Background: Successful surgery outcomes are limited to moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome. Multilevel collapse at retropalatal and retroglossal areas is often found during the drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE). Therefore, multilevel surgery is considered for these patients. The aim of our study was to survey surgical outcomes by modified uvulopalatoplasty (UPPP) plus transoral robotic surgery tongue base reduction (TORSTBR) versus barbed repositioning pharyngoplasty (BRP) plus TORSTBR. Methods: The retrospective cohort study was performed at a tertiary referral center. We collected moderate to severe OSA patients who were not tolerant to positive pressure assistant PAP from September 2016 to September 2019; pre-operative–operative Muller tests all showed retropalatal and retroglossal collapse; pre-operative Friedman Tongue Position (FTP) > III, with the tonsils grade at grade II minimum, with simultaneous velum (V > 1) and tongue base (T > 1), collapsed by drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) under the VOTE grading system. The UPPP plus TORSTBR (n = 31) and BRP plus TORSTBR (n = 31) techniques were offered. We compare the outcomes using an Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS) questionnaire, and measure the patients’ apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), lowest O₂ saturation, cumulative time spent below 90% (CT90), and arousal index (AI) by polysomnography six months after surgery; we also measure their length of hospital stay and complications between these two groups. Results: Comparing BRP plus TORSTBR with UPPP plus TORSTBR, the surgical success rate is 67.74% and 38.71%, respectively. The significantly higher surgical success rate in the BRP plus TORSTBR group was noted. The surgical time is shorter in the BRP plus TORSTBR group. The complication rate is not significant in pain, bleeding, dysgeusia, dysphagia, globus sensation, and prolonged suture stay, even though the BRP plus TORSTBR rendered a higher percentage of globus sensation during swallowing and a more prevalent requirement of suture removal one month after surgery. The length of hospital stay is not significantly different between the two groups. Conclusion: In conclusion, BRP plus TORSTBR is a considerable therapy for moderate to severe OSA patients with DISE showing a multi-level collapse in velum and tongue base area. The BRP technique might offer a better anterior–posterior suspension vector for palate level obstruction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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10 pages, 2769 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Upper Airway Stimulation in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (EFFECT): A Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

by Clemens Heiser, Armin Steffen, Benedikt Hofauer, Reena Mehra, Patrick J. Strollo, Jr., Olivier M. Vanderveken and Joachim T. Maurer

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(13), 2880; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10132880 - 29 Jun 2021

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3807

Abstract

Background: Several single-arm prospective studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of upper airway stimulation (UAS) for obstructive sleep apnea. There is limited evidence from randomized, controlled trials of the therapy benefit in terms of OSA burden and its symptoms. Methods: We conducted [...] Read more.

Background: Several single-arm prospective studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of upper airway stimulation (UAS) for obstructive sleep apnea. There is limited evidence from randomized, controlled trials of the therapy benefit in terms of OSA burden and its symptoms. Methods: We conducted a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled, crossover trial to examine the effect of therapeutic stimulation (Stim) versus sham stimulation (Sham) on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). We also examined the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire (FOSQ) on sleep architecture. We analyzed crossover outcome measures after two weeks using repeated measures models controlling for treatment order. Results: The study randomized 89 participants 1:1 to Stim (45) versus Sham (44). After one week, the AHI response rate was 76.7% with Stim and 29.5% with Sham, a difference of 47.2% (95% CI: 24.4 to 64.9, p < 0.001) between the two groups. Similarly, ESS was 7.5 ± 4.9 with Stim and 12.0 ± 4.3 with Sham, with a significant difference of 4.6 (95% CI: 3.1 to 6.1) between the two groups. The crossover phase showed no carryover effect. Among 86 participants who completed both phases, the treatment difference between Stim vs. Sham for AHI was −15.5 (95% CI −18.3 to −12.8), for ESS it was −3.3 (95% CI −4.4 to −2.2), and for FOSQ it was 2.1 (95% CI 1.4 to 2.8). UAS effectively treated both REM and NREM sleep disordered breathing. Conclusions: In comparison with sham stimulation, therapeutic UAS reduced OSA severity, sleepiness symptoms, and improved quality of life among participants with moderate-to-severe OSA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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13 pages, 1113 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Respiratory Resistance as a Predictor for Oral Appliance Treatment Response in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Pilot Study

by Hiroyuki Ishiyama, Masayuki Hideshima, Shusuke Inukai, Meiyo Tamaoka, Akira Nishiyama and Yasunari Miyazaki

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(6), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10061255 - 18 Mar 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2629

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the utility of respiratory resistance as a predictor of oral appliance (OA) response in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Twenty-seven patients with OSA (mean respiratory event index (REI): 17.5 ± 6.5 events/h) were recruited. At baseline, [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine the utility of respiratory resistance as a predictor of oral appliance (OA) response in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Twenty-seven patients with OSA (mean respiratory event index (REI): 17.5 ± 6.5 events/h) were recruited. At baseline, the respiratory resistance (R20) was measured by impulse oscillometry (IOS) with a fitted nasal mask in the supine position, and cephalometric radiographs were obtained to analyze the pharyngeal airway space (SPAS: superior posterior airway space, MAS: middle airway space, IAS: inferior airway space). The R20 and radiographs after the OA treatment were evaluated, and the changes from the baseline were analyzed. A sleep test with OA was carried out using a portable device. The subjects were divided into Responders and Non-responders based on an REI improvement ≥ 50% from the baseline, or REI < 5 after treatment, and the R20 reduction rate between the two groups were compared. The subjects comprised 20 responders and 7 non-responders. The R20 reduction rate with OA in responders was significantly greater than it was in non-responders (14.4 ± 7.9 % versus 2.4 ± 9.8 %, p < 0.05). In responders, SPAS, MAS, and IAS were significantly widened and R20 was significantly decreased with OA (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in non-responders (p > 0.05). A logistic multiple regression analysis showed that the R20 reduction rate was predictive for OA treatment responses (2% incremental odds ratio (OR), 24.5; 95% CI, 21.5–28.0; p = 0.018). This pilot study confirmed that respiratory resistance may have significant clinical utility in predicting OA treatment responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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11 pages, 1164 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Positive Airway Pressure Therapy Adherence with Mask Resupply: A Propensity-Matched Analysis

by Adam V. Benjafield, Liesl M. Oldstone, Leslee A. Willes, Colleen Kelly, Carlos M. Nunez, Atul Malhotra and on behalf of the medXcloud Group

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(4), 720; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10040720 - 12 Feb 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2396

Abstract

There are currently few data on the impact of mask resupply on longer-term adherence to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. This retrospective analysis investigated the effects of mask/mask cushion resupply on the adherence to PAP versus no resupply. Deidentified patient billing data for [...] Read more.

There are currently few data on the impact of mask resupply on longer-term adherence to positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. This retrospective analysis investigated the effects of mask/mask cushion resupply on the adherence to PAP versus no resupply. Deidentified patient billing data for PAP supply items were merged with telemonitoring data from Cloud-connected AirSense 10/AirCurve 10 devices via AirView^TM (ResMed). Eligible patients started PAP between 1 July 2014 and 17 June 2016, had ≥360 days of PAP device data, and achieved initial U.S. Medicare adherence criteria. Patients who received a resupply of mask systems/cushions (resupply group) were propensity-score-matched with those not receiving any mask/cushion resupply (control group). A total of 100,370 patients were included. From days 91 to 360, the mean device usage was 5.6 and 4.5 h/night in the resupply and control groups, respectively (p < 0.0001). The proportion of patients with a mean device usage ≥4 h/night was significantly higher in the resupply group versus the control group (77% vs. 59%; p < 0.0001). The therapy termination rate was significantly lower in the resupply group versus the control group (14.7% vs. 31.9%; p < 0.0001); there was a trend toward lower therapy termination rates as the number of resupplies increased. The replacement of mask interface components was associated with better longer-term adherence to PAP therapy versus no resupply. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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Review

Jump to: Research

11 pages, 741 KiB

Open AccessReview

Epidemiology, Physiology and Clinical Approach to Sleepiness at the Wheel in OSA Patients: A Narrative Review

by Maria R. Bonsignore, Carolina Lombardi, Simone Lombardo and Francesco Fanfulla

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(13), 3691; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11133691 - 27 Jun 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3421

Abstract

Sleepiness at the wheel (SW) is recognized as an important factor contributing to road traffic accidents, since up to 30 percent of fatal accidents have been attributed to SW. Sleepiness-related motor vehicle accidents may occur both from falling asleep while driving and from [...] Read more.

Sleepiness at the wheel (SW) is recognized as an important factor contributing to road traffic accidents, since up to 30 percent of fatal accidents have been attributed to SW. Sleepiness-related motor vehicle accidents may occur both from falling asleep while driving and from behavior impairment attributable to sleepiness. SW can be caused by various sleep disorders but also by behavioral factors such as sleep deprivation, shift work and non-restorative sleep, as well as chronic disease or the treatment with drugs that negatively affect the level of vigilance. An association between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and motor vehicle accidents has been found, with an increasing risk in OSA patients up to sevenfold in comparison to the general population. Regular treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) relieves excessive daytime sleepiness and reduces the crash risk. Open questions still remain about the physiological and clinical determinants of SW in OSA patients: the severity of OSA in terms of the frequency of respiratory events (apnea hypopnea index, AHI) or hypoxic load, the severity of daytime sleepiness, concomitant chronic sleep deprivation, comorbidities, the presence of depressive symptoms or chronic fatigue. Herein, we provide a review addressing the epidemiological, physiological and clinical aspects of SW, with a particular focus on the methods to recognize those patients at risk of SW. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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6 pages, 217 KiB

Open AccessReview

Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Heart Failure: Current Knowledge and Future Directions

by Shahrokh Javaheri and Sogol Javaheri

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(12), 3458; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11123458 - 16 Jun 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3279

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent among patients with asymptomatic left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction and congestive heart failure, and if untreated may contribute to the clinical progression of heart failure (HF). Given the health and economic burden of HF, identifying [...] Read more.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent among patients with asymptomatic left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction and congestive heart failure, and if untreated may contribute to the clinical progression of heart failure (HF). Given the health and economic burden of HF, identifying potential modifiable risk factors such as OSA and whether appropriate treatment improves outcomes is of critical importance. Identifying the subgroups of patients with OSA and HF who would benefit most from OSA treatment is another important point. This focused review surveys current knowledge of OSA and HF in order to provide: (1) a better understanding of the pathophysiologic mechanisms that may increase morbidity among individuals with HF and comorbid OSA, (2) a summary of current observational data and small randomized trials, (3) an understanding of the limitations of current larger randomized controlled trials, and (4) future needs to more accurately determine the efficacy of OSA treatment among individuals with HF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

13 pages, 517 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Narrative Review of the Association between Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

by Catherine A. McCall and Nathaniel F. Watson

J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11(2), 415; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11020415 - 14 Jan 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6983

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often co-morbid with implications for disease severity and treatment outcomes. OSA prevalence is higher in PTSD sufferers than in the general population, with a likely bidirectional effect of the two illnesses. There is [...] Read more.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often co-morbid with implications for disease severity and treatment outcomes. OSA prevalence is higher in PTSD sufferers than in the general population, with a likely bidirectional effect of the two illnesses. There is substantial evidence to support the role that disturbed sleep may play in the pathophysiology of PTSD. Sleep disturbance associated with OSA may interfere with normal rapid eye movement (REM) functioning and thus worsen nightmares and sleep-related movements. Conversely, hyperarousal and hypervigilance symptoms of PTSD may lower the arousal threshold and thus increase the frequency of sleep fragmentation related to obstructive events. Treating OSA not only improves OSA symptoms, but also nightmares and daytime symptoms of PTSD. Evidence suggests that positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy reduces PTSD symptoms in a dose-dependent fashion, but also presents challenges to tolerance in the PTSD population. Alternative OSA treatments may be better tolerated and effective for improving both OSA and PTSD. Further research avenues will be introduced as we seek a better understanding of this complex relationship. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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12 pages, 877 KiB

Open AccessReview

Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Cardiac Arrhythmias: A Contemporary Review

by Balint Laczay and Michael D. Faulx

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(17), 3785; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10173785 - 24 Aug 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8013

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disorder with a growing incidence worldwide that closely mirrors the global obesity epidemic. OSA is associated with enormous healthcare costs in addition to significant morbidity and mortality. Much of the morbidity and mortality related to [...] Read more.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disorder with a growing incidence worldwide that closely mirrors the global obesity epidemic. OSA is associated with enormous healthcare costs in addition to significant morbidity and mortality. Much of the morbidity and mortality related to OSA can be attributed to an increased burden of cardiovascular disease, including cardiac rhythm disorders. Awareness of the relationship between OSA and rhythm disorders is variable among physicians, a fact that can influence patient care, since the presence of OSA can influence the incidence, prevalence, and successful treatment of multiple rhythm disorders. Herein, we provide a review of this topic that is intentionally broad in scope, covering the relationship between OSA and rhythm disorders from epidemiology and pathophysiology to diagnosis and management, with a particular focus on the recognition of undiagnosed OSA in the general clinical population and the intimate relationship between OSA and atrial fibrillation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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14 pages, 3492 KiB

Open AccessReview

Body Mass Index Reduction and Selected Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Meta-Analysis

by Marta Stelmach-Mardas, Beata Brajer-Luftmann, Marta Kuśnierczak, Halina Batura-Gabryel, Tomasz Piorunek and Marcin Mardas

J. Clin. Med. 2021, 10(7), 1485; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm10071485 - 2 Apr 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2935

Abstract

Although clinical studies have been carried out on the effects of weight reduction in sleep apnea patients, no direct link has been shown between weight reduction and changes in cardio-metabolic risk factors. We aimed to analyze changes in the apnea–hypopnea index and selected [...] Read more.

Although clinical studies have been carried out on the effects of weight reduction in sleep apnea patients, no direct link has been shown between weight reduction and changes in cardio-metabolic risk factors. We aimed to analyze changes in the apnea–hypopnea index and selected cardio-metabolic parameters (total cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, insulin, blood pressure) in relation to the reduction in body mass index in obstructive sleep apnea patients. Medline, Web of Science and Cochrane databases were searched to combine results from individual studies in a single meta-analysis. We identified 333 relevant articles, from which 30 papers were assigned for full-text review, and finally 10 (seven randomized controlled trials and three nonrandomized studies) were included for data analysis. One unit of body mass index reduction was found to significantly influence changes in the apnea–hypopnea index (−2.83/h; 95% CI: −4.24, −1.41), total cholesterol (−0.12 mmol/L; 95% CI: −0.22, −0.01), triglycerides (−0.24 mmol/L; 95% CI: −0.46, −0.02), fasting insulin (−7.3 pmol/L; 95% CI: −11.5, −3.1), systolic (−1.86 mmHg; 95% CI: −3.57, −0.15) and diastolic blood pressure (−2.07 mmHg; 95% CI: −3.79, −0.35). Practical application of lifestyle modification resulting in the reduction of one unit of body mass index gives meaningful changes in selected cardio-metabolic risk factors in obstructive sleep apnea patients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Perspectives on the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Part I)

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