Otolaryngology: Open Access
Open Access

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects millions of individuals worldwide, contributing to significant morbidity and reduced quality of life. Characterized by repetitive airway collapse during sleep, OSA leads to intermittent hypoxia, hypercapnia, and fragmented sleep patterns. If left untreated, OSA is associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and neurocognitive impairment. Treatment strategies for OSA include both non-surgical and surgical interventions, each with distinct benefits and limitations. While non-surgical approaches are generally recommended as the initial treatment, surgical interventions are considered for patients with anatomical abnormalities or those who fail to tolerate conservative treatments. This research aims to compare these modalities to determine their effectiveness, safety, and long-term patient outcomes [1-3].

Discussion

CPAP is the gold standard for OSA treatment. It maintains airway patency by delivering continuous positive pressure through a nasal or oronasal mask. Studies indicate that CPAP significantly reduces apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), improves daytime alertness, and lowers cardiovascular risks. However, patient adherence is a significant challenge due to discomfort, dryness, and noise associated with the device. Mandibular advancement devices (MADs) and tongue-retaining devices are alternatives for mild to moderate OSA. These appliances reposition the jaw or tongue to prevent airway obstruction. Although they are more tolerable than CPAP, their effectiveness in severe OSA is limited. loss, positional therapy, and avoidance of alcohol and sedatives play crucial roles in managing OSA. While lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient for moderate to severe OSA, they enhance the effectiveness of other therapies. This procedure involves the removal of excess tissue from the soft palate and oropharynx to widen the airway. While UPPP can be effective in selected patients, recurrence rates are high, and complications such as swallowing difficulties may arise [4,5].

Conclusion

The choice between surgical and non-surgical treatments for OSA depends on disease severity, patient anatomy, and individual preferences. While CPAP remains the first-line therapy due to its effectiveness and non-invasiveness, adherence challenges necessitate alternative options such as oral appliances and hypoglossal nerve stimulation. Surgical interventions, particularly MMA and hypoglossal nerve stimulation, are viable alternatives for selected patients, offering substantial improvements in airway patency. Future research should focus on refining patient selection criteria and developing novel therapies to enhance treatment adherence and long-term success in managing OSA.

Acknowledgment

None

Conflict of Interest

None

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