Question:
Is apnea testing required before surgery?

I was just wondering if I have to be tested for sleep apnea prior to surgery. I can't sleep lying down right now so its not a problem for me. I sleep sitting up on the couch and sleep okay.    — Scott D. (posted on November 30, 2004)

November 29, 2004
I think it depends on your surgeon. I was tested because I snore. Why are you not able to sleep lying down? If you have breathing problems laying down then it is probably in your best interest to have the test done.
   — davesband1

November 29, 2004
You definitely should be tested. If you have undiagnosed sleep apnea, you can die during surgery... I think the problem is with the anesthesia. This happened to a woman on here. I think her name was Ginger Brewster? Better to be safe than sorry.
   — mom2jtx3

November 29, 2004
Scott, PLEASE do get tested for sleep apnea. My best friend, Ginger Brewster, listed on the memorial page of this website died from complications after WLS surgery because she was not tested/treated for sleep apnea. Please read her story and I'm sure you'll agree that its better to be safe than sorry. Best of luck to you with you surgery.
   — Hackett

November 30, 2004
Scott, I didnt have a sleep study. I did have PFT's (pulmonary function test) you probably will have that also. I did have sleep apnea, and was lucky i didnt have any rspiratory problems this surgery. this can be very serious and i would recomend a sleep study and a c-pap machine if necessary.I to couldnt sleep lying down...but 3 1/2 months post-op..im back in bed lieing flat.All the Best! Tracey
   — traceybubbles

November 30, 2004
I had sleep apena testing done, and do have it. I didn't even know I had it either! Honestly, getting the test and having to use a CPAP machine is the best thing that's happened to me. I sleep better, live better! Cynthia
   — Cynthia ..

November 30, 2004
Even if your surgeon does not require it, insist on doing it. This is critical information that the anestigiologist (im sure it's spelled wrong) needs to know. I had it done and turns out I had severe apnea. I did not even know I had it. Please, please have this done.
   — Randy W.

December 1, 2004
I didn't have to have a sleep study done, but if you have problems sleeping in a normal position, you probably are really tired during the day and find yourself wanting to catnap alot. It wouldn't hurt to ask your family physician to refer you to have a sleep study done. You might need a C-Pap or Bi-Pap machine to sleep with. You would probably need to ask your surgeon about this. Everyone's situation is different. I would be afraid to tell you the wrong thing. Good luck! I am getting excited and nervous. I only have 15 more days! Cheryl
   — csanchez1111