Obstructive sleep apnea is regularly linked to the posterior oropharynx and the tongue, but its relationship with the nose is often overlooked. Recent research suggests that the assessment of the nose plays an important role in the physiology of sleep. Nasal obstruction is common in sleep apnea and contributes greatly to the development of OSA. Here to talk to us about the role of the nose in OSA is Dr. Jolie Chang.
Jolie L. Chang, MD, is an Associate Professor of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, and Chief of the Division of Sleep Surgery and General Otolaryngology at the University of California, San Francisco. She specializes in sleep apnea surgery and minimally invasive approaches for salivary gland surgery including sialendoscopy. She also provides comprehensive and individualized evaluations for patients considering surgery for sleep apnea and specializes in drug-induced sleep endoscopy, soft palate surgery, tongue base surgery, snoring surgery, and hypoglossal nerve stimulation implant surgery.
