Investigating Patient Pathways in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Following a Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE)

A Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) is a diagnostic procedure widely used by sleep surgeons to evaluate the upper airway of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This minimally invasive procedure is performed under sedative conditions that mimic sleep, which allows the sleep surgeon to assess the pattern of airway collapse or obstruction and form a treatment plan. We question the trajectory of the patients' care after receiving a DISE, particularly patients noncompliant with positive airway pressure (PAP) treatment. The primary goal is to investigate questions related to DISE evaluation to determine candidacy for surgical intervention and assessments of patient outcomes. Tracking patient outcomes relative to the treatment plan will assist in understanding why patients may not be seeking medical intervention post-DISE. Examining the factors that contribute to whether patients seek intervention for their OSA will further inform the social patterns, socioeconomic factors, and demographics that determine the use of medical care.