[Anaesthetic management of adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome].

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this review article is to update the anaesthetic management of adult patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS).

DATA SOURCES: All references obtained from the medical database Medline related to OSAS and anaesthesia from 1963 until May 2006 were reviewed. References included original articles, observations, clinical cases, and reviews published in English or in French.

DATA SYNTHESIS: The anaesthetic literature related to OSAS and anaesthesia is poor. Understanding anatomy and pathophysiology is important for an optimal anaesthetic management. Since the diagnosis is unknown in almost 80-90% of these patients, many undergo general or regional anaesthesia every day without recognition of the main dangers associated with the condition. Recognition of these patients, especially in the preanaesthetic assessment, is an essential step to prevent perioperative complications. Patients with OSAS are very sensitive to sedatives, hypnotics and opioids. The use of these drugs must be controlled and monitored. Anticipation of difficult intubation avoids complications during induction of general anaesthesia and the use of nasal CPAP decreases the incidence of respiratory complications in the perioperative period.

CONCLUSION: Further research is needed in this field of anesthesia. Intraoperative difficulties in the control of airway and postoperative cardiac and respiratory complications may happen. The use of nasal CPAP in the perioperative period makes the anaesthetic management easier and safer.