Upper airway bypass surgery for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

This article reviews the history of tracheostomy for sleep apnea syndrome along with current indications for temporary and permanent tracheostomy in these patients. Because most patients requiring tracheostomy for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome are morbidly obese and have a short thick neck, a skin-lined technique has been developed. This technique is described along with preoperative and postoperative care necessary to allow uneventful healing and prevent complications. Surgical techniques available for tracheostomy closure are also described.