Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome: a feasibility study to review NICE guidelines

Introduction Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) is a sleep-related respiratory condition, leading to repeated temporary cessation of breathing. OSAHS affects approximately eight million people in the UK and can contribute to many comorbidities. Recently, there has been updated National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines for the management of OSAHS in the UK.Aims To assess the current care pathway for OSAHS patients in St George's Hospital (SGH) and if the hospital was complying with current NICE guidelines.Methods A retrospective case note analysis of 50 adult patients who have attended SGH for OSAHS in 2022 was undertaken to review their care pathway. Patient notes were reviewed to determine if key criteria of NICE guidelines were followed.Results The OSA clinic follows some of the NICE guidelines and had this recorded in the notes for 40% of the standards/criteria reviewed (10 out of 25 standards were met and recorded).Discussion This service evaluation reveals patients have multiple appointments and have varying treatment compliance. Further discussions are required with the sleep clinicians to determine an efficient pathway for patients who require consideration for alternative therapies for OSA and understanding the funding flows.Conclusions There is a need to raise awareness of these guidelines and improve record-keeping of lifestyle advice given and monitoring treatment efficacy, as the NICE guidelines were not yet being routinely followed. This paper highlights the importance of keeping up to date with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines relevant to one's scope of practice, particularly with a condition that often requires inter-disciplinary management.We hope to increase awareness of obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome national guidelines and how to manage it, as dentists may receive referrals as part of patient care.Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome is a condition that may not be well-known to dental care professionals; however, the NICE guidelines include the profession as part of patient management, so knowledge of these is key, and what type of management may be required.