Increased Risk of Serious Post-Operative Cardiopulmonary Complications in Undiagnosed Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Increased Risk of Serious Post-Operative Cardiopulmonary Complications in Undiagnosed Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Background: Previous trials suggest that OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) is associated with an increased rate of postoperative complications. Our objective was to determine whether OSA is an independent risk factor for serious cardiopulmonary complications and to assess the possible role of OSA severity. Methods: We analysed 5133 polysomnograms conducted between 2002 and 2011 for suspicion of OSA. We reviewed medical charts to assess the occurrence of postoperative complications in patients who had undergone elective or urgent surgery in the three years preceding the polysomnogram study. Patients with OSA were compared to patients who had a normal polysomnogram. The primary outcome was a composite of serious cardiac or respiratory complications and unplanned admission to intensive care unit. Multivariate analysis with risk stratification according to OSA severity and apnea-hypopnea index were planned to the protocol.