Radiofrequency Ablation for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Meta-analysis

Objectives/Hypothesis: Recent studies suggest that radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study investigates the effectiveness of RFA in treating OSA using a critical literature review and meta-analysis. Study Design: Critical literature review and meta-analysis. Methods: Two. independent searches of PubMed 1966-present Were performed to identify publications pertaining to RFA and OSA. Effectiveness of the procedure was measured by comparing the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), and lowest O-2 saturation before and after tissue ablation. Results: Sixteen studies met the inclusion criteria. The study found a 31% reduction in short-term ESS (odds ratios (OR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.63-0.75), which was maintained beyond 12 months (OR 0.68, 95% CI 0.43-0.73). Likewise, RFA resulted in a 31% reduction in short term (<12 month) (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.61-0.77) and 45% reduction (OR 0.55, 95% C.I. 0.45-0.72) in long-term (>24 month) RDI levels. Short-term results of the lowest O-2 saturations failed to demonstrate improvement (OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.88-1.20). Conclusion: RFA seems to be a clinically effective tool that reduces ESS scores and RDI levels in patients with OSA syndrome. The procedure should be considered a valid treatment option for patients who refuse or are unable to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure.