Simple sleep trick may ease Post-Surgery apnea

NCT ID NCT02152202

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether sleeping in a semi-upright position (45-degree angle) after surgery could prevent sleep apnea from getting worse. 164 adults with sleep apnea who were having elective inpatient surgery took part. Half slept semi-upright and half slept flat on their backs. The researchers measured breathing problems on the second night after surgery.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

semi-upright sleeping position

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to prevent sleep apnea from getting worse after surgery.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early proof-of-concept study. The effect may be small or not apply to all patients. Sleeping position is just one factor among many.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Anesthesia

    Toronto, Ontario, M5G 1X5, Canada

  • Toronto Western Hospital, Department of Aneshtesia

    Toronto, Ontario, M5T2S8, Canada

  • Toronto Western Hospital, Department of Aneshtesia

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada

  • University Health Network, Department of Anesthesia

    Toronto, Ontario, M5T2S8, Canada