Orthorpedic surgeons and sleep study referrals

[tapia1]

I am an owner of a sleep lab in McAllen Texas, and was just worderning if Orthorpedic Surgeons can refer their patients for a sleep study pre surgery.  

[ruthven78]

at the last hospital I worked at they were putting in place a protocol for the RTs to be able to put the hospitals CPAP units on post-op patients who demonstrate sleep apnea.  The surgeons (including Ortho) and anesthia are to do pre-op screening to those who may be susceptable to having sleep apnea while under sedation.  I've had a few patients come back still groggy enough where they were having sleep apnea.  Most of the good Ortho docs should send patients for a pre-op sleep study to see if they will be in danger of having sleep apnea post-operatively.  An doctor no matter which field of practice can refer people for a sleep study.

[KatEyes]

Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner, was trying to find info on the topic. I did read some articles and it seems anesthesiologists in some facilities are screening patients for possible sleep apnea as some studies show patients with it have a shorter recovery with fewer complications if cpap is used postop. I don't know this site's policy on posting links, but I will say I saw several articles referenced on cpaptalk under the icon of a lightbulb in the topic of CPAP safety. Hope you find enough to make your point.

[tapia1]

Do you have any idea where I can find info for  the doctors.  I've talked to a couple of docs but they don't see the point

[KatEyes]

A patient with obstructive sleep apnea carries additional pre and post op risks, particularly the possibility of cardiac stress if breathing stops while medicated but not intubated. Smart orthopedic surgeon.