Faculty Sponsor

Jana Stedman

College

College of Nursing & Health Professions (CONHP)

Department/Program

MSPA

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-23-2025

Abstract

Objective: This study compares the effectiveness of surgical versus nonsurgical management in reducing the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). While continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the gold standard, its long-term success if often limited by poor adherence. This research explores whether surgical interventions offer a viable alternative for improving clinical outcomes and long-term disease control.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using ResearchRabbit. Search terms included "CPAP and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty" (6 results) and "apnea-hypopnea index, CPAP, and uvulopalatopharyngoplasty" (3 results). Inclusion criteria: studies published in or after 2019, in English, with full-text availability; adult OSA patients; and use of AHI as a severity measure. Exclusion criteria: articles published before 2019, not in english, or without full text. Outcomes of interest included AHI reduction, sleep efficiency, snoring, daytime sleepiness, adherence, and long-term symptom relief.

Results: UPPP significantly reduced AHI, with some studies showing greater initial reduction then CPAP. However, AHI tended to increase again over time, raising concerns about long-term surgical durability. CPAP remains superior for long-term AHI control but is limited by adherence. Barbed reposition pharyngoplasty (BRP and mandibular advancement devices (MAD) emerged as alternatives; MADs had better adherence but lower efficacy that CPAP, while BRP showed benefit when combined with hyoid suspension (HS).

Conclusion: CPAP remains the most effective treatment for AHI reduction, but adherence limitations necessitate alternative options. Surgical treatment may benefit select patients, underscoring the importance of individualized care planning.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Aidan has a special interest in Cardiothoracic Surgery and is working in Cardiothoracic Surgery in Texas following graduation. He will be presenting on "Personalizing OSA Treatment: Balancing Efficacy and Adherence" because he has a special interest in surgical procedures.

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