Is it safe to go under anesthesia with sleep apnea?

Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea are at high risk of developing postoperative complications when having surgery or other invasive interventions under general anaesthesia.

Can cataract surgery be done without sedation?

Cataract surgery with or without intravenous sedation can be a factor in the clinical experience. Moving to sublingual sedation may be the next step in safety and comfort for a demanding patient demographic. Cataract surgery with or without intravenous sedation can be a factor in the clinical experience.

What is the most efficacious treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea?

Initially described in 1981, nasal CPAP therapy is the most effective treatment for OSA, and it has become the standard of care for this condition. (It is also effective for treating mixed apneas and some central apneas.) The CPAP device consists of a blower unit that produces continuous positive-pressure airflow.

Why is sleep apnea a risk factor for surgery?

However, the prevalence of sleep apnea is much higher in patients undergoing elective surgery. Sedation and anesthesia have been shown to increase the upper airway collapsibility and therefore increasing the risk of having postoperative complications in these patients.

Is conscious sedation safe for sleep apnea patients?

Upper airway patency is compromised during sleep in OSA, and the use of conscious sedation during ambulatory procedures may exacerbate this effect. OSA, similarly to other chronic medical conditions, may introduce a risk for adverse outcomes during a procedure with sedation.

What is conscious sedation?

Conscious sedation is a combination of medicines to help you relax (a sedative) and to block pain (an anesthetic) during a medical or dental procedure. You will probably stay awake, but may not be able to speak.

What sedation is given for cataract surgery?

IV fentanyl and midazolam are the two topical medications we use most frequently for the sedation of patients undergoing cataract surgery.

How do you manage obstructive sleep apnea?

For milder cases of obstructive sleep apnea, your doctor might recommend lifestyle changes:

1. Lose weight if you’re overweight.
2. Exercise regularly.
3. Drink alcohol moderately, if at all.
4. Quit smoking.
5. Use a nasal decongestant or allergy medications.
6. Don’t sleep on your back.

Which patient is at highest risk for obstructive sleep apnea OSA )?

The major risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea are obesity, a family history of snoring or apnea, and being male.

Do you snore when sedated?

As a patient becomes more sedated, the muscles of their airway become more relaxed. This loss of muscle tone allows the soft tissue of the airway to collapse and cause obstruction. It will manifest as snoring, laboured breathing with use of accessory muscles, or apnea.