Abstract

DI TULLIO, Fernando  and  BORSINI, Eduardo. Positional Obstructive Sleep Apnea/Hypopnea Syndrome. Rev. am. med. respir. [online]. 2020, vol.20, n.3, pp.255-266. ISSN 1852-236X.

Body position during sleep time influences the frequency and duration of apneas and hypopneas in individuals who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea. Individuals in supine position show higher frequency of obstructive events and therefore, higher values in severity indexes. Though there are different definitions and classifications, the positional sleep apnea syndrome represents 60% of all patients evaluated in a sleep unit, and differentiating it aims to determine which candidates will benefit from positional therapy. There is no universally accepted definition and the evidence of the clinical benefit of classifying patients with positional sleep apnea is still controversial in many aspects. Positional therapy has the purpose of decreasing supine time and the severity of obstructive events. A significant proportion of patients would benefit from this treatment. The continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment and is recommended for severe and moderate forms with clinical manifestations and cardiovascular history. In this group, positional therapy could be recommended as adjuvant treatment.

Keywords : Sleep apnea syndrome; Body position; Severity.