The impact of using a mandibular advancement device in cardiovascular disorders related to obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

Introduction: cardiovascular diseases have a high prevalence. Likewise, the prevalence of sleep breathing disorders in chronic heart failure patients is very high. Objective: to analyze the impact of using a mandibular advancement device (MAD) in patients with a history of previous heart failure. Material and methods: an extensive online search was performed on the MeSH descriptors «occlusal splints», «sleep apnea, obstructive» and «heart failure». Results: the severity of the sleep breathing disorder varies according to the severity of the cardiovascular disease. Discussion: the harmful effects of the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on the cardiovascular system include intermittent chronic hypoxia and great inspiratory efforts that overload the myocardium, thus affecting its structure and function. The MAD treatment can reduce the severity of the OSA and reduces intrathoracic pressure as it keeps the upper airway open. Conclusions: prevention of complications in cardiovascular patients with OSA is crucial and it is related to the prevention and treatment of respiratory disorders.