Trial: High Prevalence of Sleep Apnea in Patients With Long-Term Pacing: The European Multicenter Polysomnographic Study

Authors: Garrigue, S; Pépin, JL; Defaye, P; Murgatroyd, F; Poezevara, Y; Clémenty, J; and Lévy, P.

Reference: Circulation. 2007;115:1703-1709

Purpose: To determine the prevalence and consequences of sleep apnea syndrome in patients who had received pacemakers for symptomatic bradycardia, AV block or heart failure.

Number of Patients:  98

Number of Centers: 11

Design: Multicenter Observational Trial

Authors Conclusion: Patients with long-term pacing exhibit a high prevalence of sleep apnea, despite the indication for pacing.  In this population, sleep apnea is mainly obstructive and is frequently asymptomatic.  Screening for sleep apnea in these patients may be warranted.

Key words: Pacing, sleep apnea

Comment: This study demonstrated a high prevalence of sleep apnea in patients undergoing pacemaker implantation for standard indications (symptomatic sinus node dysfunction, AV block, heart failure).  The sleep apnea was often moderate, and would not be detected without the use of polysomnography.  The optimal treatment of sleep apnea in these patients remains unknown.

Ongoing Related Studies:

1. Impact of Resynchronization Therapy on Sleep Disordered Breathing in Advanced Congestive Heart Failure

Summary written by Eric Grubman, MD