perioperative management of patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (osahs)

Patients diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) can safely undergo a surgical procedure, even on an outpatient basis, if other comorbidities are adequately controlled. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment in patients with a confirmed diagnosis decreases the risk of long-term cardiovascular complications. Sedation should be done by an anesthesiologist, who must also monitor the patient and have the appropriate equipment to deal with emerging respiratory complications. Procedures undergone by these patients should be performed in a hospital setting, in which a post-anesthetic care unit and staff are available for follow-up, at least for an hour after the procedure ends. CPAP treatment should be continued as ordered by the treating physician. Identifying patients with OSAHS risk during the preanesthetic evaluation is important to propose an anesthetic plan that reduces respiratory complications and improves airway management.