A selection of abstracts of clinically relevant papers from other journals. The abstracts on this page have been chosen and edited by John R. Radford.
Abstract
The use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is safer than an oral appliance.
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Hoekema A, Stegenga B et al. J Dent Res 2008; 87: 882–887
Although many who suffer from sleep apnoea prefer wearing an oral appliance, it is 'generally considered less effective than CPAP'. Using block randomisation, 51 subjects with sleep apnoea were allocated to use oral appliances, and 52 others treated with CPAP. Each regimen was used for eight weeks. Polysomnography, a multiparameter test which includes measures of brain activity, heart rate and oxygen levels, together with other outcome measurements, were used to examine the efficacy, before and after, the different treatments. The use of an oral appliance was as effective as CPAP (76.5% v 82.7%) when measured using polysomnography. However, 'CPAP was more effective in improving the apnea-hypopnea index and was superior to oral-appliance therapy for persons with severe disease'.
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Obstructive sleep apnea therapy. Br Dent J 206, 319 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.222
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.222
