Sleep-disordered breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing. Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) constitutes a spectrum of diseases, with primary snoring as the mildest form and obstructive sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) as the most severe form. These disorders are primarily caused by a partial or complete collapse of the upper airway during sleep. Risk factors, clinical features and physical findings are discussed in this review paper together with the diagnostic criteria. Polysomnographic studies remain the gold standard in the diagnosis and preoperative assessment of SDB. Surgical treatment for snoring most commonly includes some form of velopharyngeal surgery. The application of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) is the first-line treatment for moderately and severe OSAHS. Upper airway surgery is indicated for mild OSAHS and can be considered in moderately and severe OSAHS patients who are unable to comply with general measures/and or with medical treatment. Oral appliances are indicated for patients with mild SDB or nCPAP intolerance. The management of SDB requires a multidisciplinary approach. A thorough diagnostic work-up and proper patient selection are essential to guarantee a successful treatment outcome.