The effects of lateral pharyngoplasty on carotid intima-media thickness in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea.

Introduction: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a known risk factor for development of carotid atherosclerosis. The treatment of OSA, through positive pressure devices or surgical procedures, may reduce the signs of subclinical atherosclerosis in apneic patients.

Objective: The decrease of carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) after treatment of OSA remains a highly controversial issue.