Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and tracheostomy. Long-term follow-up experience

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), a disabling disorder that leads to life-threatening cardiorespiratory events during sleep, is treated by tracheostomy. Long-term follow-up data of 50 patients who underwent this procedure are reported, and the indications for surgery are summarized. Surgery may result in secondary local and general acute and subacute complications, but, on a long-term basis, patients were completely relieved of clinical symptoms, returned to full activity and adapted normally to social and familial life. Temporary closure of the tracheostomy during sleep led to recurrence of obstructive sleep apnea.