Knowledge and confidence in managing patients with obstructive sleep apnea in Indian otorhinolaryngology-head and neck and maxillofacial surgeons

Abstract Background Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) remains an underdiagnosed and untreated condition, despite being so common. Otorhinolaryngology-head and neck and maxillofacial surgeons are directly involved in managing these patients. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the knowledge and confidence in managing patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Methods An anonymous, online, cross-sectional survey was distributed to otolaryngology-head and neck and maxillofacial surgeons. We used a modified version of the validated OSA Knowledge and Attitudes (OSAKA) questionnaire based on a focused group discussion with a specialist in the field. Results A total of 164 responses were obtained, with the mean age of the respondents being 37.5 ± 10.2 years. The mean total knowledge score was 13.1(SD = 2.7); the lowest knowledge was seen regarding the question on pediatric OSA. Most professionals agreed that OSA was a significant clinical problem (89.7%) and 75.6% were confident in identifying patients with risk factors for OSA; however, only 51.3% were confident in managing patients with OSA. Conclusions Although otolaryngology-head and neck and maxillofacial surgeons have good knowledge in identifying and managing patients with OSA, lacuna still exists. The low confidence in managing patients with OSA points to the need for more focused education and training.