American journal of otolaryngology
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Review Comparative Study
Neuromuscular function of the soft palate and uvula in snoring and obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review.
A collapsible upper airway is a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea. The exact pathophysiology leading to a more collapsible airway is not well understood. A progressive neuropathy of the soft palate and pharyngeal dilators may be associated with the progression of snoring to OSA. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the international literature investigating the neurophysiologic changes in the soft palate and uvula that contribute to progression from snoring to OSA. ⋯ Recent evidence highlighted in this systematic review implicates the role of neurogenic pathology underlying the loss of soft palate and/or uvular tone in the progression of snoring to sleep apnea.
-
Review Comparative Study
Neuromuscular function of the soft palate and uvula in snoring and obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review.
A collapsible upper airway is a common cause of obstructive sleep apnea. The exact pathophysiology leading to a more collapsible airway is not well understood. A progressive neuropathy of the soft palate and pharyngeal dilators may be associated with the progression of snoring to OSA. The purpose of this study is to systematically review the international literature investigating the neurophysiologic changes in the soft palate and uvula that contribute to progression from snoring to OSA. ⋯ Recent evidence highlighted in this systematic review implicates the role of neurogenic pathology underlying the loss of soft palate and/or uvular tone in the progression of snoring to sleep apnea.