[OSA in adults: Role of the mandibular advancement device (MAD)].

Mandibular advancement devices are an alternative to continuous positive airway pressure for patients with mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea/ hypopnea syndrome (OSA). Oral appliances advance the mandible and tongue, enlarge and stabilize the upper airways during sleep. Clinical examination is used to select candidates for oral appliances and a particular appliance for a given patient. Titration of the advancement will optimize its effectiveness by resolving subjective clinical symptoms. Polygraphic or ventilatory polysomnography controls the effectiveness of the treatment (IAH reduction, increase of oxygen saturation and improvement of the main symptoms). Clinical follow-up is required to assess longterm outcomes, side effects and treatment adherence. Oral appliances are effective in the short-term provided they achieved a 50% reduction in IAH and complete symptom resolution.