Question:
CPAP, how long do I need to be CPAP prior to surgery

I had my initial study done and did have sleep apena. I am scheduled for a second study were I will sleep with the CPAP to get me setting and then be referred to HHC for the machine. Does anyone know if you are required to be on the CPAP for a certain amount of time prior to surgery.?    — Cheryl S. (posted on April 9, 2007)

April 9, 2007
I was on CPAP for approximately 6 months prior to my surgical auth.Howewer,I believe it doesn't matter how long you have been on it,as long as you have a clearance from your pulmonologist,staing that you have sleep apnea and are cleared for surgery. I had to meet with my doc after the sleep study to be sure that I was tolerating CPAP well,and how I was feeling. CPAP has helped me tremendously in my quality of life. I recently had my surgery & a follow up with my pulmonologist,and I will be retested around my 190# mark, to see if I even need it anymore. I hope my answer helps. The best to you~
   — peacelovecat

April 9, 2007
I have been on a CPAP for about 5 yrs and at that time it was just because I was snoring so loud and I hadn't even thought of the surgery at that time. It isn't a requirement just a tool that you will need to use to help you breath at night and once you have lost all the weight you may not need it. There is more than one kind of face mask. They generally try to put the one that just goes over your whole nose but there is another that is more comfortable that fits into your nostrils and doesn't cover your face. Be sure to ask about the different masks. Good luck.
   — hugger1021

April 9, 2007
My surgery is scheduled for April 16th and my surgeon does REQUIRE if you have sleep apena to be on your cpap for a minium of 250 hours. They can check the hours on your machine. lol Jen
   — jlflbf

April 9, 2007
The CPAP is another tool to be used in improving your health overall. Try not to think of it as a another stop on a checklist before having surgery. The ultimate goal in this entire process is to become a healthier, fitter person. CPAP is just another way of helping you become healthier. If you have Apnea, then you are at risk for a great many things, not just being approved for surgery. Good luck, and best wishes, Chris
   — CChappell