Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Propofal in Evaluation of Patients with Sleep Apnea
Propofal also known as Diprovan which is the generic name is used to induce a sleep like state for evaluation of the upper airway in patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Propofal is among one of the most widely used anesthetics in United States. Its safety and efficacy is well documented in the medical literature. Its unique properties such as quick onset of action and rapid metabolism by the body make Propofal an ideal anesthetic agent for short procedures. Nasoendoscopy is preformed at the hospital or at a certified out patient surgery center with a trained professional monitoring the patient. This procedure mimics the relaxed state of musculature and soft tissue of the upper airways during sleep. A flexible Nasendoscope (Small medical Camera) is used to enter through the nostrils to evaluate the nasal cavity, soft palate, tongue and throat. This examination assists clinicians to observe where the obstruction occurs in the upper airway and its
severity during sleep. Patient’s rapid recovery, virtually with no down time and with the information obtained from this none invasive procedure allows the doctor to have a better understanding of the upper airway resistance to airflow during sleep.