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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
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Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
[Twin pregnancy and severe obstructive sleep apnea]
S Langner1, M Halank, M Kolditz
1Bereich Pneumologie, Medizinische Klinik I, Universitätsklinikum Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Germany. Simona.Langner@uniklinikum-dresden.de
Zeitschrift Fur Geburtshilfe Und Neonatologie
|May 9, 2007
Summary
Severe obstructive sleep apnea in pregnancy can be challenging to treat, even with advanced ventilation. This case highlights difficulties in preventing pre-eclampsia and premature birth despite therapy.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pulmonology
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in pregnancy is linked to serious maternal and fetal complications, including hypertension and pre-eclampsia.
- Non-invasive ventilation is a common treatment for OSA, but its efficacy can vary, especially in complex pregnancies.
Observation:
- A 36-year-old pregnant woman with twins presented with severe OSA (RDI 104/h, SpO2 75%) at 28 weeks gestation.
- Initial treatments with oxygen, CPAP, and BiPAP-S were ineffective.
- Effective management was achieved with BiPAP-ST and supplemental oxygen, improving RDI to 32/h and SpO2 to 85%.
Findings:
- Despite successful OSA management, the patient developed progressive pre-eclampsia and underwent a Cesarean section at 31 weeks gestation.
- Post-surgery, non-invasive ventilation was required for six weeks.
- This case contrasts with literature suggesting successful OSA treatment in pregnancy, indicating potential limitations in severe or multiple gestations.
Implications:
- Advanced non-invasive ventilation strategies may be necessary for severe OSA in pregnancy.
- The interplay between OSA, twin pregnancy, and pre-eclampsia requires further investigation.
- Early and aggressive management of OSA is crucial, but may not always prevent pregnancy complications.
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