Which of the following is NOT approved by the AASM to treat sleep apnea?

The correct choice identifies that LAUP (Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty) is not an approved treatment by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) for sleep apnea. The AASM focuses on evidence-based research and guidelines when endorsing treatments for conditions such as sleep apnea.

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy is widely recognized as the standard and most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, working by providing a continuous flow of air that keeps the airway open during sleep.

Dental appliances, also known as oral appliances, are accepted by the AASM as a treatment option for patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea, as they can effectively reposition the jaw and tongue to maintain an open airway.

Positional therapy is often recommended for individuals with positional obstructive sleep apnea, where sleep position significantly impacts the severity of their condition. The therapeutic approach usually involves encouraging patients to sleep on their side rather than their back to reduce apnea episodes.

LAUP has limited evidence supporting its effectiveness and may not address the root causes of sleep apnea, which contributes to its lack of approval by the AASM as a treatment option. This context reinforces why LAUP is not included in the approved treatments while the other options are recognized for