Effects of unilateral sinonasal surgery on sleep-disordered breathing

Aims/objectives: To examine the effects of surgery for unilateral sinonasal lesions on sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Material and methods: Oxygen desaturation index (3%ODI) as a marker of SDB and bilateral/unilateral nasal resistance were measured before and after surgery for 18 patients with unilateral sinonasal lesions. Various parameters were compared between those who achieved 60% or less decrease of 3%ODI and those who did not. Results: Bilateral nasal resistance as well as that of the surgical side five days after surgery was significantly lower than those of pre-operative value. Preoperative 3%ODI (times/hour) was 10.08 ± 7.32, which significantly decreased to 7.67 ± 5.79 five days after surgery. Even in unilateral patients, sinonasal surgery could reduce the bilateral nasal resistance, resulting in a decrease in 3%ODI. Age was younger and postoperative nasal resistance of the surgical side was significantly lower in the group who achieved 60% or less decrease in 3%ODI than those who did not. Conclusions and significance: SDB is influenced by even unilateral nasal obstruction. Surgery for unilateral lesion can improve the respiration during sleep as well as bilateral nasal resistance. Favorable outcome by surgery could be brought about in younger patients and those for whom sufficient improvement of nasal resistance was expected by surgery.