Different mechanisms of atelectasis formation require different treatment strategies.

Several strategies have been developed to treat atelectasis, including positive end-expiratory pressure and deep inspirations. However, in some patients these recruitment strategies fail to improve lung function. Therefore, the authors studied whether recruitment maneuvers could resolve atelectasis following either passive airway closure or active bronchconstriction.

Gastric bypass is an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea in patients with clinically significant obesity.

Background: We have demonstrated that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is prevalent in 60% of patients undergoing bariatric surgery. A study was conducted to determine whether weight loss following bariatric surgery ameliorates OSA.

Methods: All 100 consecutive patients with symptoms of OSA were prospectively evaluated by polysomnography before gastric bypass.