Definition
DISE, or Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy, is a specialized medical procedure used to evaluate the upper airway during sleep. It involves administering sedatives to induce sleep while using an endoscope to examine the airway. DISE helps diagnose and assess the causes of obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep-related breathing disorders.
Indications for DISE
Indications for DISE is to investigate the underlying factors contributing to sleep-related breathing disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnea. Common reasons for undergoing DISE include:
Suspected Sleep Apnea: To determine the specific anatomical or functional factors causing airway obstructions during sleep.
Treatment Planning: To aid in the development of a tailored treatment plan, such as surgery or oral appliances, for sleep-related breathing disorders.
Treatment Evaluation: To assess the effectiveness of previous interventions and identify persistent or new issues in the upper airway.
Symptoms Leading to DISE
Patients who may require DISE often experience symptoms related to sleep-related breathing disorders, including:
Loud Snoring: Frequent and loud snoring during sleep.
Witnessed Apneas: Breathing interruptions observed by a bed partner.
Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: Fatigue and drowsiness during waking hours.
Gasping or Choking: Awakening from sleep with a sensation of choking or gasping for air.
Morning Headaches: Frequent morning headaches may indicate sleep apnea.
Difficulty Concentrating: Poor concentration and memory due to disrupted sleep.
High Blood Pressure: Sleep apnea can contribute to elevated blood pressure.
Treatment of Conditions Diagnosed by DISE
DISE serves as a diagnostic tool rather than a treatment itself. Once the underlying causes are identified, appropriate Sleep apnea treatment options can be considered, which may include:
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A common treatment for sleep apnea, CPAP involves using a machine that delivers a continuous stream of air to keep the airway open.
Oral Appliances: Custom-designed devices can reposition the jaw or tongue to prevent airway obstructions.
Surgical Interventions: Surgery may be recommended to correct anatomical issues in the throat or to remove obstructions.
Management and Follow-Up
Patients diagnosed through DISE should work closely with healthcare providers to manage their condition, which may involve:
Regular Follow-Up: Periodic appointments to assess the effectiveness of treatment and make any necessary adjustments.
Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, changes in sleep habits, and the avoidance of alcohol or sedatives may help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms.
Compliance: Adhering to prescribed treatments and interventions is crucial for managing sleep-related breathing disorders.
Summary
DISE, or Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy, is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate and diagnose the causes of sleep-related breathing disorders, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. It allows for a detailed examination of the upper airway during sleep to identify anatomical or functional obstructions. Once diagnosed, appropriate treatments can be implemented to manage the condition and improve overall sleep quality.