Abstract
Background: CPAP is currently the treatment of choice for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS), but therapy adherence is poor. Many educational trials have been proposed to increase CPAP adherence. In our study we tested the hypothesis that polysomnograph (PSG) chart view by patients may improve adherence to CPAP therapy.
Methods: A controlled parallel group study was performed with 206 newly diagnosed OSAS patients, randomised into 2 groups (n = 103 each): standard (Group 1) or educational support (Group 2). Educational support group included the vision on the computer screen of 2 consecutive polysomnography charts for each patient: the first recorded during a standard diagnostic overnight polysomnography and the second during a full-night polysomnography with nasal CPAP therapy. In both cases, patient’s attention was drawn only on the tracks of flow and oxyhemoglobin saturation. Clinical outcome was monitored by polysomnography at CPAP initiation and after 1, 3 and 12 months.
Results: After 12 months of therapy 76 % of the group 2, whereas only 52 % of the patients of group 1 returned for a follow-up visit (p < 0.001 ). Statistical significance was reached already after 1 and 3 months. Moreover, CPAP usage (h/night) was higher in group 2 than in group 1 at each control visit.
Conclusions: PSG chart view by OSA patients can increase therapy adherence, as evaluated by rate of return for the follow-up visit and mean nightly CPAP usage.
- continuous positive airway pressure
- compliance
- obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome
- sleep apnoea diagnosis and treatment
- behavioral interventions
- patient education
Footnotes
- ↵*Corresponding Author ; Address : Piazzale Giulio Cesare n. 11, 70124, Bari; Phone :393934320444; Fax : 390805592907 ; Mail : ipisoli9{at}gmail.com
All the authors declared the absence of any conflicts of interest or financial support.
- Copyright © 2013 by Daedalus Enterprises Inc.
