Calidad de vida en pacientes antes y después de ser tratados con dispositivo de avance mandibular en la apnea del sueño

Abstract

Introduction: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) often experience disruptions in their overall health. However, the use of Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) could improve their quality of life. Objective: To assess the quality of life in patients diagnosed with OSA before and after using MAD. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 25 patients over 18 years old clinically diagnosed with OSA. The SAQULI validated questionnaire was administered to them. Additional sociodemographic information was collected using Google Forms. Data were downloaded, organized in Microsoft Excel, and analyzed using STATA 14.2. Data were presented in tables with absolute frequencies and percentages (qualitative variables) and summary statistics (quantitative variables). Comparison of questionnaire scores before and after MAD usage was performed using Anova or Kruskal-Wallis tests. p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The study adhered to the 1993 norm 8430 for human studies. Results: 68% of the participants were males with an average age of 53 years, primarily from social stratum five (40%), residing mostly in Bucaramanga, and 68% were married. Comparative analysis before and after MAD usage showed statistically significant changes (p<0.05) in all evaluated domains (daily routine, social interactions, emotional state, and symptoms). Conclusions: MAD is an effective therapeutic option for improving the quality of life in patients with OSA. These devices have a positive impact on patients' daily routines, social interactions, and emotional well-being. These results support the importance of considering MAD as an integral part of OSA treatment.