[Hemodynamics and sleep structure in attempted weaning after nCPAP ventilation therapy of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome]

nCPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) treatment is presently the standard therapy in marked obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. Fundamentally, this is a long-term treatment. Various authors have been making different recommendations in respect of the frequency of application, based partly only on the patient's individual pattern of complaints and symptoms. Our study aimed at examining the short-term nocturnal effects of discontinuing the treatment course in 12 patients, using polysomnography as a diagnostic tool. Results showed that directly after discontinuation of therapy the sleep structure, respiration during sleep and the nocturnal blood pressure pattern returned to baseline findings. It is concluded from this that nCPAP treatment should be strictly adhered to every night to minimise the risk of cardiovascular complications in the patients concerned.