Research Projects

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is more common in India than in the West, despite a lesser level of obesity. The prevalence of OSA is expected to increase due to the rise in obesity in India. Asian OSA patients have predominant bony restrictions in the upper airway with less soft tissue contribution. However, the exact anatomical differences and relative contribution of soft tissue structures in Indian OSA patients are not well-known. Understanding the anatomical differences in upper airway anatomy is crucial for identifying true risk factors for OSA, understanding the disease better, and selecting the best treatment modality. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the first line of treatment for OSA, targeting soft tissues but not bony restrictions. 20-30% of OSA patients do not tolerate CPAP therapy, and there is no established next line of therapy. Various treatment options include mandibular advancement devices, hypoglossal nerve stimulation, and upper airway corrective surgeries. Understanding the upper airway anatomy of Indian obese patients is essential for selecting the best treatment modality. Significant racial differences in upper airway anatomy have been found between Asian and Western OSA patients, and most data on OSA treatment comes from Western countries. Understanding the airway anatomy that predisposes some Indian obese patients to develop OSA will help identify the best treatment modality for the population.