[Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Which therapy for which patients]

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is defined by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine as a combination of at least five obstructive events per hour of sleep and such other symptoms as daytime sleepiness, ischemic heart disease and stroke. In addition to weight reduction, the use of oral appliances, and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), a number of surgical interventions such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and maxillomandibular advancement are also available for the treatment of sleep apnea. Since no prolongation of life has yet been shown for most of the therapeutic options, treatment needs to be individualized on the basis of symptoms, clinical findings and compliance.