Management of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Abstract

This chapter explores the effects of obstructive sleep apnea in the pediatric population. The prevalence of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea is 2–5% and is most commonly diagnosed in preschool-aged children, and the incidence increases in children diagnosed with craniofacial abnormalities. Several anatomic factors contribute to the pathophysiology, but the most common in children is adenoid and tonsillar hypertrophy. A thorough physical examination along with polysomnography remains the mainstay of diagnosis. Adenotonsillectomy improves the symptoms of OSA with a 79–85% success rate, but there are several other treatment modalities. The general census among the specialists that treat pediatric OSA is that it is an underdiagnosed condition that causes significant morbidity and reduction in the quality of life when left untreated.