Efficacy of a mandibular advancement splint for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: preliminary data

Objective (Aims): The aim of the study was to investigate treatment outcome of mandibular advancement devices for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).- Subjects/materials and methods: Thirteen OSA patients, 12 males and one female, (53.76 +/- 9.43 years) received a mandibular advancement splint. The study protocol includes three polysomnographic recordings: before the splint delivery (for a correct diagnosis), after three and twelve months. - Essential results: one patient dropped out complaining difficulty in wearing the appliance. Before treatment, the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was 25.95+/-9.63, the supine AHI 33.22+/-9.83, the lower mean nocturnal oxygen saturation 77.18+/-6.25. After three months of treatment, the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was 11.83+/-3.6, the supine AHI 11.82+/-4.3, the lower mean nocturnal oxygen saturation 93.02+/-3.53. Conclusions: all the analyzed parameters improved after three months of mandibular advancement splint treatment. It’s necessary verify the long term effects. • Me or my family members don’t have a financial and/or beneficial interest in any products or services related to my presentation in the abstract form.