Continuous Positive Airway Pressure for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults

摘要

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a non-invasive technique for providing low levels of air pressure from a flow generator, via a nose mask, through the nares. The purpose is to act as a 'pneumatic splint' to prevent the collapse of the oropharyngeal walls and the obstruction of airflow during sleep. Although there have been no prospective randomized controlled clinical trials comparing CPAP to other treatments for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), numerous clinical case reports suggest that its use is frequently associated with a significant reduction in the signs and symptoms of this disorder with little associated morbidity. CPAP is not universally effective or appropriate for all patients with OSA and its long-term effects and compliance have not been adequately studied.