Why Do I Need to Be Screened for Sleep Apnea before Surgery?

There is a relationship between sleep apnea and surgery, as sleep apnea can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person repeatedly stops breathing during sleep, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. The stress of surgery and anesthesia can exacerbate the breathing problems associated with sleep apnea, which can increase the risk of complications such as respiratory failure, cardiovascular events, and prolonged hospital stays.

Patients with untreated sleep apnea who undergo surgery are at an increased risk of experiencing complications during and after the procedure. This is because surgery and anesthesia can further reduce the already impaired breathing ability of a person with sleep apnea. Additionally, the use of pain medication and sedatives during and after surgery can further depress breathing and increase the risk of airway obstruction in people with sleep apnea.

To reduce the risk of complications associated with sleep apnea and surgery, it is important to identify patients with sleep apnea before surgery and manage their condition appropriately. This may include the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, which can help keep the airway open during sleep, as well as other treatments to help manage the condition. By managing sleep apnea before and after surgery, healthcare providers can help reduce the risk of complications and improve outcomes for patients.

If you've been diagnosed with sleep apnea and prescribed CPAP therapy, take a look at our selection of CPAP machines and feel free to contact us with questions.