Abstract

Objective: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) is known to be associated with cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and arrhythmia. However, only a few studies have examined its role in aortic dilatation. We aimed to determine the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and aortic diameter.
Methods: 53 patients (42 males, 11 females) being of age between 20 and 80 years, who presented to the chest diseases outpatient clinic with symptoms compatible with sleep apnea syndrome included this study. Berlin Sleep Questionnaire and Epworth Sleepiness Scale were used to determine the OSAS risk. Following risk assessment, polysomnography test was performed to confirm OSAS. Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI)<5 was considered normal and AHI≥5 was considered to be consistent with OSAS. They were informed about OSAS and its adverse effects on cardiovascular system. Transthoracic echocardiography was used as a noninvasive diagnostic tool to quantify proximal aorta diameter in order to detect aortic dilatation.
Results: 40 people were diagnosed with OSAS by polysomnography. 13 subjects did not have OSAS. Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) group had significantly greater sinotubular junction and ascending aorta diameters (p<0.05). Sinus valsalva dilatation was more common among the OSAS group, although this difference did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusion: A positive correlation was found between Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) and aortic dilatation. Early diagnosis and effective treatment of obstructive sleep apnea is important to prevent aortic complications.

Keywords:Sleep apnea; Aortic dilatation; Proximal aortic diameter