Impact of Obstructive Sleep Apnea on Outcomes Following Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion

Although OSA was associated with increased risks of respiratory failure, mechanical ventilation, dysphagia, and long-term opioid use following ACDF, it was not linked to elevated rates of major structural complications, namely, implant failure, pseudarthrosis, or revision surgery, supporting the long-term fusion success and procedural safety of ACDF in this population. This study suggests that a preoperative OSA diagnosis may not represent a strict contraindication to ACDF; however, perioperative strategies such as preoperative counseling, vigilant monitoring, and tailored risk mitigation remain essential to improving patient outcomes and addressing the elevated medical morbidity observed.