Effectiveness of CPAP Therapy for Patients with Sleep Apnea Syndrome Undergoing Coronary Arterial Bypass Grafting

Abstract

Two males (aged 51 and 66 years) underwent emergent coronary artery bypass grafting for acute myocardial infarction. After surgery, they were diagnosed with severe sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) and left ventricular dysfunction. They were treated for SAS with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. After the CPAP therapy, these two patients not only improved their left ventricular function but also decreased the levels of A and B-type natriuretic peptides, renin-angiotensin-aldsterone indices, high sensitivity CRP, and oxidative LDL. SAS is common in cardiovascular disease and is a potential cause of increased mortality. The deteriorative effects of SAS on cardiac function have recently received attention because SAS has been found to increase cardiac afterload, stimulate sympathetic nerve activity, and induce myocardial ischemia. We conclude that CPAP therapy for SAS patients with left ventricular dysfunction is effective for left ventricular function, RAAS hormones, catecholamine, inflammation and oxidative stress.