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Aortic elastic properties and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Hulya Akhan Kasikcioglu1, Levent Karasulu, Ebru Durgun
1Siyami Ersek Cardiovascular Surgery Center, Resitpasa caddesi Salkim sokak No. 2/5, Avcilar (PK 9), 34840 Istanbul, Turkey. hulyakasikcioglu@yahoo.com
Heart and Vessels
|November 30, 2005
Summary
Obstructive sleep apnea increases aortic stiffness and impairs left ventricular diastolic function. These changes correlate with disease severity, suggesting a link between sleep apnea and cardiovascular risk.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Sleep Medicine
- Echocardiography
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to increased cardiovascular disease risk.
- The aorta plays a crucial role in modulating the cardiovascular system.
- Aortic elasticity impacts left ventricular function and coronary blood flow.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate left ventricular diastolic function in patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
- To assess aortic elastic properties in obstructive sleep apnea patients.
- To explore the relationship between aortic stiffness and OSA severity.
Main Methods:
- Echocardiographic examination of 14 male OSA patients and 14 controls.
- Measurement of left ventricular dimensions and Doppler parameters.
- Assessment of aortic diameter, stiffness index, and distensibility index.
Main Results:
- OSA patients exhibited significantly higher aortic stiffness (P=0.001) and lower aortic distensibility (P=0.009).
- Peak myocardial velocities were reduced in OSA patients compared to controls.
- Aortic stiffness correlated positively with the apnea-hypopnea index (P=0.002).
Conclusions:
- Increased aortic stiffness associated with OSA severity may contribute to left ventricular diastolic dysfunction.
- Findings highlight potential mechanisms linking OSA to adverse cardiovascular outcomes.
- Aortic stiffness is a significant finding in obstructive sleep apnea patients.
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