There's no denying that the patients presenting for outpatient surgery are increasing in size and in the number of co-morbidities - specifically obstructive sleep apnea. In this condition, the neck and jaw muscles relax during sleep, resulting in the potential for tissue in the airway to obstruct air flow. Patients who have OSA are at a greater risk both intra- and post-operatively for such negative outcomes as increased respiratory complications, hospital transfers, post-discharge breathing difficulties due to anesthesia and opiates, and possibly death. And you wouldn't believe how many overweight and obese patients don't know they suffer from or have symptoms of OSA. According to the literature, 80 percent to 90 percent are undiagnosed.