Article
Tracheostomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
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Published: | April 24, 2006 |
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Obstructive sleep apnea is primarily managed in the United States by medical technology using CPAP or BiPAP. Patients with severe sleep apnea intolerant of CPAP or with anatomic limitations have been treated with tracheostomy. These patients are young to middle aged and with treatment of their co-morbidities have a reasonable life expectancy. We, therefore, have tailored the tracheostomy to a matured long term stoma to minimize granulation, ease patient self-care and allow overnight extubation with the tube free tracheostomy. 85 tracheostomy patients are described. The technique with tracheostomy and their long term results are noted. This remains a reasonable procedure in the dangerously ill sleep patient intolerant of CPAP and requiring management of the sleep apnea.