Efficiency of Oro-Facial Myofunctional Therapy in Treating Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
Zhang, F., Tian, Z., et al. (2022).
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation, 49(7), 734-745.
This systematic review and meta-analysis investigates the impact of oro-facial myofunctional therapy (OMT) for children and adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Of note, OSA measurement and outcomes are not within the speech-language pathologist's scope of practice, but providing OMT is within the purview of the speech-language pathologist.
Not stated
From database inception to February 12, 2022
Quantitative study designs
15
<div>Findings demonstrated that oro-facial myofunctional therapy (OMT) was associated with decreases in apnea hyoapnea index (AHI), Epiworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and snoring intensity. Increases in lowest oxygen saturation point were additionally noted. OMT impact on AHI differences were significant for both adults and children and for mild to moderate apnea, but not severe apnea. OMT impact on lowest oxygen saturation level was significant for both adults and children at all severity levels. Limitations to this review include small sample sizes, potential for selection bias, and an overall paucity of evidence. Further research is indicated.</div>
