A Randomised Controlled Trial of CPAP versus Oral Appliance in Obstructive Sleep Apnoea [ 2007 - 2009 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Peter Cistulli (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Mehmet Ali Darendeliler ,  Prof Ronald Grunstein

Brief description Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a very common disorder, affecting approximately 25% of women and 9% of men in the middle-aged workforce . It is characterised by repetitive, complete or partial closure of the throat passage during sleep, resulting in sleep disturbance and low oxygen levels. When associated with symptoms, termed Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome, it occurs in 4% of men and 2% of women in middle age. OSA is recognised as a serious public health problem. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure is the gold standard treatment, and has been demonstrated to produce major health benefits. However, there is growing evidence supporting the use of oral appliances to treat OSA, which are potentially simpler to use. It is thought that these work by enlarging the throat passage. Recent practice guidelines recommend their use as a first line treatment for mild to moderate OSA. The aim of this project is to directly compare the health benefits achievable with these therapies, taking into account patient compliance and preference, and will assist in the development of protocols for the use of these treatments in clinical practice.

Funding Amount $AUD 416,155.03

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant