Otolaryngologic clinics of North America
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Otolaryngol. Clin. North Am. · Dec 1998
ReviewUpper airway bypass surgery for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
This article reviews the history of tracheostomy for sleep apnea syndrome along with current indications for temporary and permanent tracheostomy in these patients. Because most patients requiring tracheostomy for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome are morbidly obese and have a short thick neck, a skin-lined technique has been developed. This technique is described along with preoperative and postoperative care necessary to allow uneventful healing and prevent complications. Surgical techniques available for tracheostomy closure are also described.
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Otolaryngol. Clin. North Am. · Dec 1998
Preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative management of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
The patient with untreated, obstructive sleep apnea may present difficult or potentially life-threatening challenges to the surgical team. This is true even if the anticipated surgery is remote to the upper airway. Preoperative recognition of the obstructive apnea is essential as the first step in preventing potential complications. When recognized, intraoperative and postoperative initiative can result in a satisfactory outcome.