Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common respiratory disorder that affects many people and can have a serious impact on health. It is characterised by repeated interruptions in breathing during the night due to the collapse of the upper airways. These interruptions reduce blood oxygen levels by up to 10 per cent, worsening the quality of sleep, which becomes insufficient and non-restorative. The best and most definitive treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea is orthognathic surgery.
Orthognathic surgery: the best option for treating obstructive sleep apnoea
Sleep apnoea occurs when the throat muscles relax during sleep, causing the upper airways to narrow or become blocked. This usually results in loud snoring, pauses in breathing followed by gasping or wheezing, and a feeling of tiredness or drowsiness throughout the day. The good news for those affected is that obstructive sleep apnoea can be treated with surgery.
People with obstructive sleep apnoea are often unaware of their condition, as the symptoms occur whilst they are asleep. However, it can be identified through a sleep study that records various physiological variables. At Clínica Birbe, we carry out a polysomnography test in the patient’s own home. During this test, we monitor a series of parameters throughout the night: heart rate, airflow, oxygen saturation, snoring, changes in position… Analysing these allows us to calculate the AHI (apnoea-hypopnoea index per hour) and thereby diagnose whether OSA is present and, if so, assess whether it is mild, moderate or severe.
There are various treatments available to address OSA which can help alleviate the condition, starting with making some lifestyle changes. Another option is to use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices. This device consists of a mask that must be worn whilst sleeping. Although it is usually effective, many people find it too cumbersome and inconvenient over time, so they look for an alternative. Another device capable of replacing CPAP is the mandibular advancement device (MAD), but this can also lead to intolerance and even changes in tooth position and pain in the temporomandibular joint.
Although these systems are useful and help to some extent, the only curative treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea to date is orthognathic surgery. This is a surgical procedure that corrects irregularities in the facial structure, including the mandible and the maxilla. Surgical repositioning of the maxillary and mandibular bones widens the upper airways, thereby minimising, and even eliminating, their obstruction during sleep.
How orthognathic surgery works in the treatment of OSA
Before orthognathic surgery, a thorough assessment of the patient is carried out to determine the cause of OSA and to plan the procedure accurately.
Following this type of surgery, to ensure a speedy recovery and to minimise discomfort and potential complications as much as possible, the patient must take the doctor’s advice seriously, attend any follow-up appointments the doctor deems necessary, and follow the guidance provided. These include maintaining a suitable diet and avoiding certain activities that may put pressure on the newly repositioned bones. In any case, you will be provided with detailed instructions on the aftercare you must follow.
This type of surgery offers significant benefits for patients with OSA. Firstly, it provides a considerable improvement in symptoms related to apnoea, such as snoring and breathing interruptions. Secondly, it improves sleep quality and reduces the risk of complications associated with OSA, such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.
Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common respiratory disorder that can have a negative impact on the health of those who suffer from it. Whilst there are various treatment approaches available, orthognathic surgery is the most effective and long-lasting option in many cases. You can call us on 34 932 124 737, send us a WhatsApp message to 34 626852363 or email us at clinica@birbe.org.
Article written by the Birbe Editorial Committee
