Cost-Effectiveness of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Therapy Versus Other Treatments of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder that is increasing in prevalence, both in the United States and worldwide. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), the gold-standard treatment for OSA, is cost-effective from both a payer and societal perspective. Alternative treatments of OSA, including oral appliance therapy, various surgeries, and hypoglossal nerve stimulation have also been evaluated from a cost-effectiveness perspective although results are less consistent. Some studies directly compare these alternative therapies with CPAP. This review will discuss the available literature for cost-effectiveness analysis in the treatment of OSA.

Keywords: Continuous positive airway pressure; Cost-effectiveness analysis; Obstructive sleep apnea; Oral appliances; Sleep apnea surgery; Upper airway stimulation.