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Updated: Jul 22, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Gastroesophageal reflux and obstructive sleep apnea
B A Senior1, M Khan, C Schwimmer
1Department of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, USA. Brent_Senior@med.unc.edu
Treating gastroesophageal reflux (GER) with omeprazole may reduce obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity. This study found significant improvements in apnea and respiratory disturbance indices in patients with both conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pulmonology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) may trigger laryngeal chemoreflexes.
- These reflexes are implicated in the pathophysiology of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the contribution of GER-initiated laryngeal chemoreflexes to OSA.
- To assess the efficacy of antireflux treatment in reducing OSA severity.
Main Methods:
- A prospective, nonrandomized clinical trial involving 10 male patients (20-64 years) with confirmed OSA and GER.
- Patients underwent a 30-day antireflux protocol including omeprazole.
- Polysomnography variables were compared pre- and post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Mean apnea index decreased by 31% (45 to 31, P = .04).
- Mean respiratory disturbance index decreased by 25% (62 to 46, P = .06).
- 30% of patients met criteria for treatment responders.
Conclusions:
- A potential link exists between OSA and GER.
- Antireflux treatment may serve as an effective adjunctive therapy for individuals with both OSA and GER.
- GER treatment can significantly impact OSA in specific patient groups.
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