Abstract
Objectives
Evaluate the effects of total thyroidectomy for euthyroid goiter causing tracheal compression on the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Demonstrate a relationship between tracheal compression and OSA.
Methods
A retrospective study of 8 patients with euthyroid goiter causing tracheal compression who had moderate or severe OSA. Between January 2004 and December 2007, 8 patients with these conditions were treated in a community hospital by the author. At least 1 compressive symptom (dysphagia, dyspnea, and/or orthopnea) was reported by all patients. Computed tomography of the neck and chest was used to confirm the extent of goiter and tracheal compression. OSA was confirmed with preoperative polysomnography. Total thyroidectomy was performed. Postoperative polysomnography was obtained after 90 days. Outcome measures were changes in compressive symptoms and AHI using paired t test.
Results
All 8 patients reported symptomatic control of compressive symptoms after thyroidectomy. 7 of 8 patients demonstrated postoperative improvement of AHI. The mean postoperative AHI decreased significantly from 52.1 to 36.6 (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
Total thyroidectomy for goiter causing tracheal compression can significantly improve symptoms and AHI in those patients who have OSA. Evaluation of patients with OSA should include screening for tracheal compression from goiter.
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