A comparison of tonsillar size and oropharyngeal dimensions in children with obstructive adenotonsillar hypertrophy

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux and Upper Airway Obstruction Patterns in Nonobese Sleep Apnea Patients

OBJECTIVES

The study aims to investigate the relationship between the presence of laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and obstruction levels identified during drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among nonobese patients.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective study of 105 adult patients diagnosed with OSA who underwent DISE using propofol sedation from 2019 to 2024 at a tertiary hospital. To control for the confounding impact of obesity on LPR, the study selectively enrolled individuals presenting a body mass index within the normal range. LPR was assessed using Reflux Symptom Index and Reflux Finding Score. DISE was performed to evaluate upper airway obstruction at various levels, documented using the VOTE classification system by three blinded reviewers. Hypertrophy of the lingual and palatine tonsils was graded using a four-point scale.

RESULTS

Approximately 48.57% of 105 patients showed the presence of LPR. The chi-square test demonstrated a statistically significant association between LPR and the level of airway obstruction, particularly at the tongue base (p = 0.039). Lingual tonsil hypertrophy Grade 3 at the tongue base and palatine tonsil hypertrophy Grade 3 at the oropharynx both showed significant overrepresentation, with adjusted residual values of 4.0 and 4.8, respectively. Complete tongue base obstruction showed a statistically significant association with LPR, with a strong predictive value in both univariate (β = 2.325, OR = 10.227, p = 0.007) and multivariate analyses (β = 2.295, OR = 9.921, p = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of LPR in nonobese OSA patients appears to be significantly associated with an increased likelihood of tongue base obstruction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 135:2210-2216, 2025.

Risk factors of high inflammatory state in pediatric obstructive sleep apnea

BACKGROUND

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may induce chronic systemic inflammation, which may serve as a potential mechanism contributing to multiple complications. The timely identification of high inflammatory status (HIS) in pediatric OSA is crucial for effective clinical diagnosis and management. This study aimed to evaluate influencing factors in hsCRP levels, and further investigated the risk factors associated with HIS in pediatric OSA patients.

METHODS

Children aged 3 to 15 years who presented with snoring symptoms and underwent polysomnography (PSG) at the sleep center were included in this study. All participants completed a comprehensive questionnaire, a physical examination, nasopharyngeal X-ray imaging and a blood test. The physical examination included measurements of height, weight, and visual evaluation of tonsillar hypertrophy.

RESULTS

A total of 1,171 children were enrolled, with 562 cases diagnosed with OSA. Utilizing threshold for hsCRP generated via ROC curve, 299 and 872 children exhibited HIS and Low Inflammatory Status, respectively. Compared to the control group, the hsCRP levels in the OSA group were significantly elevated. Pediatric OSA with HIS had higher BMI and a greater proportion of both overweight and obese. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that HIS was independently positively correlated with BMI and mean time of obstructive apnea, and negatively associated with minimum SpO2.

CONCLUSIONS

HsCRP in pediatric OSA patients were notably elevated, whilst identifying BMI, mean time of obstructive apnea, and minimum SpO2 as independent factors leading to HIS. HsCRP may function as an effective blood index capable of identifying individuals exhibiting HIS linked to OSA.

Evaluation of the local and systemic pattern of sensitization to allergens in patients with adenotonsillar hypertrophy

PURPOSE

Adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) is a medical condition characterized by the enlargement or swelling of the tonsils. The role of allergy in ATH has not been persuasively evidenced. Therefore, we investigated the state of humoral immunity and the presence of specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE) in tissues and sera in children suffering from TH.

METHODS

According to the skin prick test (SPT) result, 44 ATH children were divided into the atopic and non-atopic groups. The level of sIgE against 30 inhalants and food allergens in the sera and tissue homogenates was measured by a commercial allergy immunoblotting kit. In addition, we evaluated the following variables in both tonsillar tissue homogenates and serum: total IgE, IgA, IgM, IgG, and tissue eosinophil counts.

RESULTS

Our results showed that 21 (47.7%) of patients with ATH were sensitized to at least one allergen in the adenotonsillar sample and/or sera. Only two patients were negative for sIgE in the atopic group, but in the non-atopic group, only one had positive sIgE results. In the atopic group, 19 (86.4%) patients had positive sIgE in tonsillar tissues, and 18 (81.8%) had sensitized serum. There were no statistical differences in the case of other antibodies except IgE levels between the two groups. The average eosinophilic count was significantly higher in atopic patients than in the non-atopic group.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study support the role of allergy in the pathogenesis of ATH and confirmed local allergic inflammation in tonsillar tissue.

The usefulness of transcervıcal ultrasonography for the predıctıon of obstructıve sleep apnea ın chıldren

OBJECTIVE

It was aimed to investigate the role of tonsil ultrasonography(USG) in the diagnosis of pediatric OSAS.

METHODS

Before tonsillectomy (±adenoidectomy) for OSAS, all patients tonsil USG and polysomnography (PSG) tests were performed. Tonsil volume was measured preoperatively with the Brodsky tonsil grading scale and by postoperative water displacement test.

RESULTS

In total, 47 patients were included in the study. We observed a positive correlation between tonsil volumes measured by preoperative USG and water displacement test postoperatively. There was a statistically significant correlation between tonsil sizes measured by tonsil USG, PSG AHI and questionnaire scores(p < .05).

CONCLUSION

Preoperative tonsil USG may be helpful test in children with suspected OSAS.

Central and mixed apneas in children with obstructive sleep apnea: effect of adenotonsillectomy

PURPOSE

Investigate the effect of adenotonsillectomy on mixed apnea index (MAI) and central apnea index (CAI) in children with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).

METHODS

Observational retrospective analysis of polysomnographic data in children diagnosed with moderate-to-severe OSAS and without comorbidity, submitted to adenotonsillectomy.

RESULTS

Data were available for 80 children, 55 boys and 25 girls, with a median age of 3.6 years (2.1-5.9). Before surgery AHI was 14.1 (11.0-18.4) per hour, with a median preoperative OAI of 7.1 (4.1-10.6), MAI of 1.2 (0.6-1.6) and CAI of 1.0 (0.4-2.0). Adenotonsillectomy caused significant improvements in MAI, from 1.2 (0.6-1.6) to 0.5 (0.1-0.8) (p < 0.001) and CAI from 1.0 (0.4-2.0) to 0.5 (0.1-0.9) (p < 0.001). This represents a normalization of MAI in 91.7% and CAI in 75.6% of children that had an abnormal value prior surgery.

CONCLUSION

Non obstructive apneas are common in children with OSAS. Adenotonsillectomy caused significant decrease not only in OAI, but also in MAI and CAI in children with moderate-to-severe OSAS.

Evaluation of the relationship between the STOP-Bang score with oxygen reserve index and difficult airway: a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Patients diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) syndrome have a tendency towards hypoventilation, hypoxia, and hypercarbia in the perioperative period. This study hypothesized that the Oxygen Reserve Index (ORi) could predict possible hypoxia and determine difficult airways in patients at risk for OSA, as determined by the STOP-Bang questionnaire.

METHODS

This prospective study included adult patients undergoing elective surgery under general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation, divided into two groups: low risk (0-2 points) and high risk (3-8 points) based on their STOP-Bang questionnaire results. The primary outcome measure was the highest ORi value reached during preoxygenation and the time to reach this value. Data were recorded at four time points: before preoxygenation (T1), end of preoxygenation (T2), end of mask ventilation (T3), and end of intubation (T4), as well as partial oxygen pressure values in T1, T2, and T4. The secondary outcome measures were the grading scale for mask ventilation, Cormack-Lehane score, tonsil dimensions, use of a stylet, and application of the burp maneuver during intubation.

RESULTS

In the high-risk group, preoperative peripheral oxygen saturation values, the highest ORi value reached in preoxygenation, and ORi values at T3 and T4 times were lower, and the time to reach the highest ORi value was longer (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Using ORi in patients with OSA may be useful in evaluating oxygenation, and since difficult airway is more common, ORi monitoring will better manage possible hypoxic conditions.

Outcome Prediction Model for Radiofrequency Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with Tonsillectomy in Adult Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Retrospective Cohort Study

Introduction

Knowing an individualized outcome prediction is essential when counseling patients before surgery. We aim to identify predictors and build a model for the outcome of radiofrequency uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with tonsillectomy (rfUPPP + TE).

Methods

All adult patients undergoing rfUPPP + TE for sleep-disordered breathing from 2015 to 2022 in our institution were included. Preoperative evaluations included detailed upper airway examinations and standardized questionnaires. Postoperative outcomes were measured through home sleep apnea testing and repeated questionnaires 3 months post-surgery. The primary endpoint was the postoperative apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and the AHI responders using the Sher criteria.

Results

We analyzed 247 patients with a mean age of 46 ± 11 years, predominantly male (88.7%), and a mean BMI of 29.0 kg/m2. The mean AHI was reduced from 26.4 ± 18.6/h preoperatively to 16.2 ± 14.6/h postoperatively. Daytime sleepiness improved from 8.9 ± 48 to 4.0 ± 3.1 and snoring from 7.9 ± 2.1 to 3.3 ± 2.2. Multivariate analysis indicated that higher tonsil grades, preoperative AHI, and snoring levels were associated with a greater reduction in AHI. Age and body weight were negative predictors for AHI reduction. For AHI responders, according to Sher, tonsil grade was the only predictor in a multivariate analysis. The ROC curve of this simple model, with a corrected AUC of 0.625, compared favorably against two established models.

Conclusion

Our study highlights that tonsil grade, preoperative AHI, snoring, and, to a smaller extent, age and weight are key determinants of AHI reduction, emphasizing the importance of preoperative evaluation. Despite the multifactorial nature of obstructive sleep apnea, preoperative evaluation can predict the outcome of rfUPPP + TE and guide surgical planning.

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Scoring in a Pediatric Population

In recent years, the prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux has risen, especially among pediatric patients. The diagnosis of laryngopharyngeal reflux relies on patient history and clinical assessment using the Reflux Finding Score and Reflux Symptom Index as crucial diagnostic tools. Some studies have proposed a link between pepsin and laryngopharyngeal reflux, potentially triggering palatine tonsil hypertrophy. Our study aimed to investigate the correlation between laryngeal and pharyngeal manifestations of laryngopharyngeal reflux through two questionnaires and the presence of pepsin in saliva and palatine tonsils in a pediatric population. Pepsin in saliva was detected using a Western blot method, while immunohistochemistry assessed its presence in palatine tonsils. Although no statistically significant differences in Reflux Finding Score and Reflux Symptom Index were found between the immunohistochemistry-positive (IHC-positive) and immunohistochemistry-negative (IHC-negative) groups, median reflux symptom index and Reflux Finding Score values consistently trended higher in the IHC-positive group. This suggests a potential connection between elevated index values and pepsin presence in tonsillar tissue. Further investigations are essential to fully comprehend the clinical implications of these findings.

Bacterial immunotherapy is highly effective in reducing recurrent upper respiratory tract infections in children: a prospective observational study

PURPOSE

Whilst immunotherapy is an appealing option as it could reduce the burden of recurrent pediatric respiratory tract infections (RTI), there is limited evidence on its effectiveness and more research was requested in order to better understand this therapeutic modality.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study involving 57 subjects to assess the safety and effectiveness a 3-month regimen of either typified or patient-specific bacterial lysates could have in reducing the number of RTIs in children aged 0 to 11 years with histories of recurrent episodes.

RESULTS

After a 6-month follow-up, the number of RTIs and school absenteeism dropped sharply and significantly, from an adjusted mean (standard error) of 0.6 (0.04) episodes/month to 0.1 (0.03) episodes/month (74.7% reduction, P < 0.001), and from an adjusted mean score of 4.6 (1.06) points to 0.0 (0.01) points over 10 (99.5% reduction, P < 0.001), respectively. There was also a significant decrease in the severity of symptoms. No adverse reactions were observed.

CONCLUSION

The use of the study product is associated with a decreased risk of recurrent RTIs in children, with a very favorable safety profile that warrants further investigation in randomized clinical trials.

Expression of periostin in aeroallergen-sensitized children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy

OBJECTIVES

The association between adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) and allergies remains controversial. Periostin is an important player in allergic diseases. We aimed to investigate the expression of periostin in hypertrophic tonsils and adenoids in children.

METHODS

We enrolled 24 children who underwent adenotonsillectomy due to sleep-disordered breathing. They were divided into atopic and control groups according to ImmunoCAP results. The presence and location of periostin in the tonsils and adenoids were determined by immunohistochemical staining. The mRNA expression and protein levels of periostin and inflammatory cytokines were measured.

RESULTS

Immunoreactive periostin signals were observed in the subepithelial regions and germinal centers of both tonsils and adenoids. In the subepithelial regions and germinal center, periostin signals were more prominent in both tonsils and adenoids of the atopic group than in those of the control group. Significantly, the atopic group had higher periostin mRNA expression in tonsils and adenoids than the control group. The atopic group also had higher protein level of periostin in the adenoids than the control group. Atopic children had higher TGF-β1 levels in the tonsils and adenoids than those in the controls.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that periostin is present in both the tonsils and adenoids, and that its levels are increased in the adenoids of atopic children. Periostin and TGF- β1 expressions in the adenoids may be associated with the atopic status in children. Further studies are required to investigate the association between ATH and periostin in a larger number of participants.

International Consensus Statement on Obstructive Sleep Apnea

BACKGROUND

Evaluation and interpretation of the literature on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) allows for consolidation and determination of the key factors important for clinical management of the adult OSA patient. Toward this goal, an international collaborative of multidisciplinary experts in sleep apnea evaluation and treatment have produced the International Consensus statement on Obstructive Sleep Apnea (ICS:OSA).

METHODS

Using previously defined methodology, focal topics in OSA were assigned as literature review (LR), evidence-based review (EBR), or evidence-based review with recommendations (EBR-R) formats. Each topic incorporated the available and relevant evidence which was summarized and graded on study quality. Each topic and section underwent iterative review and the ICS:OSA was created and reviewed by all authors for consensus.

RESULTS

The ICS:OSA addresses OSA syndrome definitions, pathophysiology, epidemiology, risk factors for disease, screening methods, diagnostic testing types, multiple treatment modalities, and effects of OSA treatment on multiple OSA-associated comorbidities. Specific focus on outcomes with positive airway pressure (PAP) and surgical treatments were evaluated.

CONCLUSION

This review of the literature consolidates the available knowledge and identifies the limitations of the current evidence on OSA. This effort aims to create a resource for OSA evidence-based practice and identify future research needs. Knowledge gaps and research opportunities include improving the metrics of OSA disease, determining the optimal OSA screening paradigms, developing strategies for PAP adherence and longitudinal care, enhancing selection of PAP alternatives and surgery, understanding health risk outcomes, and translating evidence into individualized approaches to therapy.

Base of Tongue Surgery and Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OBJECTIVE

Drug-induced sleep endoscopy-directed lingual tonsillectomy and midline posterior glossectomy have been employed for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in children. The purpose of this study is to evaluate outcomes in children undergoing lingual tonsillectomy, midline posterior glossectomy, or combined base of tongue reduction procedures for obstructive sleep apnea.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series with chart review.

SETTING

Tertiary care academic medical center.

METHODS

A case series was performed with chart review of pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea who underwent base of tongue surgery as directed by drug-induced sleep endoscopy. Pre- and postoperative obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (oAHI) was compared. Age, sex, body mass index z score, and medical history were also evaluated.

RESULTS

A total of 168 children were included, with a mean ± SD age of 8.3 ± 3.6 years. Of these patients, 101 underwent lingual tonsillectomy alone; 25, midline posterior glossectomy alone; and 42, both. Their mean oAHI improvement was 3.52 ± 8.39, 2.55 ± 5.59, and 3.70 ± 6.07, respectively. Each surgical group experienced significant improvement in sleep apnea when pre- and postoperative oAHI was compared (P < .01). Overall surgical success, as defined by oAHI <1 (or <5 without clinical symptoms), was 75% (126 patients).

CONCLUSION

When guided by drug-induced sleep endoscopy, pediatric tongue base surgery can significantly improve oAHI and thus demonstrates promising success in treating pediatric obstructive sleep apnea.

Tonsil volume and outcome of radiofrequency uvulopalatoplasty with or without tonsillectomy in adults with sleep-disordered breathing

PURPOSE

Predictors for the outcome of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with and without tonsillectomy (UPPP ± TE) in sleep-disordered breathing have not been fully established. This study investigates tonsil grade, volume, and preoperative examination in predicting radiofrequency UPP ± TE outcomes.

METHODS

All patients undergoing radiofrequency UPP with tonsillectomy if tonsils were present between 2015 and 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients underwent a standardized clinical examination, including Brodsky palatine tonsil grade from 0 to 4. Preoperatively and 3 months after surgery, sleep apnea testing was performed using respiratory polygraphy. Questionnaires were administered assessing daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and snoring intensity on a visual analog scale. Tonsil volume was measured intraoperatively using water displacement.

RESULTS

The baseline characteristics of 307 patients and the follow-up data of 228 patients were analyzed. Tonsil volume increased by 2.5 ml (95% CI 2.1-2.9 ml; P < 0.001) per tonsil grade. Higher tonsil volumes were measured in men, younger patients, and patients with higher body mass indices. The preoperative apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and AHI reduction strongly correlated with tonsil volume and grade, whereas postoperative AHI did not. The responder rate increased from 14% to 83% from tonsil grade 0 to 4 (P < 0.01). ESS and snoring were significantly reduced after surgery (P < 0.01), but the reduction was not influenced by tonsil grade or volume. No other preoperative factor other than tonsil size could predict surgical outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Tonsil grade and intraoperatively measured volume correlate well and predict the reduction of AHI, while they are not predictive of ESS and snoring response after radiofrequency UPP ± TE.

Characteristics of Adults Undergoing Soft Tissue and Orthognathic Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OBJECTIVE

To identify clinical and demographic characteristics of adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) undergoing soft tissue and orthognathic sleep surgery, assess temporal trends in surgery type and proportion of women undergoing surgery, and provide clinical perspective before wide-spread implementation of hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS).

METHODS

In a retrospective cohort study, adults diagnosed with OSA from 2009 to 2016 were identified in a large integrated healthcare system. Characteristics between cohort members who did and did not undergo sleep surgeries were compared. Multivariable logistic regression models examined associations of different characteristics with whether surgery was performed.

RESULTS

Of 172,216 adults with OSA, 2,262 (1.3%) underwent sleep surgery during 2009-2017. The most common sleep surgery was palate surgery (56.9%), which decreased proportionately over time. In multivariable analysis, older age and obesity were associated with lower odds of undergoing surgery. Those who underwent tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy were more likely to have larger tonsils and not require additional surgery, whereas tongue reduction recipients were more likely to have severe OSA and require multiple surgery types. The proportion of women undergoing surgery increased over time (p < 0.001 from trend test).

CONCLUSION

Clinical and demographic characteristics associated with soft tissue and orthognathic sleep surgery were identified in a large adult cohort prior to widespread implementation of HGNS. An increase in sleep surgery among women and a decrease in palate surgery over time were observed. The findings provide clinical perspective on sleep surgery performed prior to implementation of HGNS and may inform future studies examining its associations with patient characteristics.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3 Laryngoscope, 2023.

A New Approach for Evaluating Palatine Tonsillar Hypertrophy in Children Based on Ultrasound: A Pilot Study

OBJECTIVES

To develop a novel ultrasound (US) plane to diagnose palatine tonsillar hypertrophy objectively in children.

METHODS

Tonsillar ultrasonography of children (age 2-14 years) who had a clinical diagnosis of tonsillar hypertrophy or not were analyzed retrospectively. Clinical data (including gender, age, body mass index (BMI)), and volume (V) of tonsils measured by the US, were recorded. Furthermore, we found a new US plane to diagnose tonsillar hypertrophy and named it the submental oblique cross-section. In this plane, diameters of the left tonsil, right tonsil, and central oropharynx were designated as T1, T2, and O. Then, we calculated the ratio by the formula (T1 + T2)/O.

RESULTS

A total of 172 cases (85 hypertrophy and 87 non-hypertrophy) were included in this study. There were no significant differences in gender (P = .844), age (P = .666), and BMI (P = .089) between the groups. In the non-hypertrophy group, the V of both sides had a positive linear correlation with age or BMI. In contrast, there was no linear correlation between ratio and age or BMI. The area under the curve (AUC) of ratio and V was 0.970 (95%CI: 0.947-0.993) and 0.835 (95%CI: 0.778-0.893) by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, respectively. The optimal cutoff value of ratio for diagnosis of tonsillar hypertrophy was 2.293 (sensitivity = 88.2%, specificity = 95.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

We established a new US section to evaluate tonsillar hypertrophy. This approach could be easily acquired and provide a reference value to guide clinical practice.

Measurements of craniofacial morphology using photogrammetry in children with sleep-disordered breathing

OBJECTIVE

To assess the craniofacial morphology in children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) using nonradiation and readily accessible photogrammetry technique.

METHODS

Included children aged 3-18 years with SDB-related symptoms from April 2019 to February 2020 in a tertiary center. All participants underwent craniofacial photogrammetry and overnight polysomnography (PSG). Participants were stratified into 2 groups (obstructive sleep apnea [OSA] group: apnea-hypopnea index [AHI] ≥ 1 and non-OSA group: AHI <1). Craniofacial photogrammetry was performed to derive variables of craniofacial features in standardized frontal and profile views. The 2 groups were propensity score matched based on age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) percentiles. Associations between craniofacial feature variables and OSA (AHI ≥1) likelihood were examined using logistic regression test. intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to evaluate the intrarater and interrater reliability.

RESULTS

In total, 58 children were enrolled for the analysis after matching. All 3 variables representing the mandibular plane angle in the profile view were increased in the OSA group (mego-tn: 34.85 ± 5.99 vs 31.65 ± 5.96°, odds ratio [OR]: 1.10, 95% CI:1.02 to 1.18, P = .01; tn-gogn: 28.65 ± 6.38 vs 25.91 ± 5.38°, OR: 1.08, 95% CI:1.02 to 1.15, P = .012; and gome-tsup: 26.71 ± 6.13 vs 22.20 ± 5.89°, OR: 1.13, 95% CI:1.04 to 1.23, P = .003).

CONCLUSIONS

Craniofacial photogrammetry revealed increased mandibular inclination in children with OSA. A steep mandibular plane with craniofacial photogrammetry is considered a potential predictor of pediatric OSA. Further investigation with a large sample size is required to clarify the validity of photogrammetry in evaluating pediatric OSA.

Obstructive sleep apnea and anatomical structures of the nasomaxillary complex in adolescents

The aim of the present study was to reveal the associations between skeletal and soft tissue features of the nasomaxillary complex and development and severity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in adolescents. A total of 100 adolescents (mean age, 14.9 ± 1.4 years; age range, 13–17 years) were enrolled. All participants underwent full-night polysomnography and had an assessment of size and position of the tongue, tonsillar size, body mass index (BMI), and circumference of the waist, neck, and hip. The skeletal features of the nasomaxillary complex, including the zygomatic arch width, nasal cavity width, nasal base width, intercanine width, intermolar width, maxillary dental arch length, palatal vault angle, palatal depth, and SNA were measured on the three-dimensional images constructed with computed tomography data. Participants with an apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) of lower than 5 (AHI ≤ 5) were classified as control and participants while those with an AHI of greater than 5 were classified as OSA group. Each variable with a significant outcome in the independent T-test and age and sex factors were integrated into the multivariate linear regression and the dependent variable was AHI. There were significant differences in the BMI and hip circumference between two groups. The width of nasal base, palatal vault angle and SNA also showed significant differences between groups. The results from multivariate linear regression demonstrated that the BMI, width of the nasal base, and SNA showed significant contributions to the severity of OSA in adolescents. The features of the nasomaxillary complex seemed to have significant influences on development and severity of OSA.

Airways and craniofacial assessment in children affected by achondroplasia with and without sleep-disordered breathing: quantitative magnetic resonance study

PURPOSE

To identify MRI-based quantitative craniofacial variables linked to airways narrowing and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) development in children with achondroplasia.

METHODS

We evaluated skull base and midface MRI in two cohorts of children affected by achondroplasia, with (group 1) or without OSA (group 2). 3DFSPGR-T1weighted images were used to assess airways volume (nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx), jugular foramina (JF) and hypoglossal foramina (HF) areas, foramen magnum area, cervical cord area, and maxillary retrusion (SNA angle).

RESULTS

Nineteen out of 27 children with achondroplasia exhibited different degrees of obstructive respiratory impairment (n.4 mild, n.8 moderate, n.7 severe), while 8 children did not show OSA. Each group was compared with age-matched controls without neuroimaging abnormalities. Both groups showed reduced nasopharynx volume, JF areas, and SNA angle, while group 1 showed also reduced oropharynx volume, ratio of FM/cervical cord areas, and HF areas (p < 0.05). A positive correlation between nasopharynx volume and SNA angle was found in both groups, while a positive correlation among upper airways volume, JF and HF areas was found only in group 1. No correlation between upper airways volume and OSA severity was found.

CONCLUSION

In children with achondroplasia, multifaced craniofacial abnormalities contribute to airways volume reduction predisposing to sleep disordered breathing. MRI-based quantitative assessment allows the appraisal of craniofacial variables linked to the development of sleep-disordered breathing such as FM stenosis, jugular and hypoglossal foramina stenosis, and retruded maxillary position and may be a valuable tool for clinical surveillance.

Autonomic nervous function and low-grade inflammation in children with sleep-disordered breathing

BACKGROUND

The objective of the study was to assess the relationship between autonomic nervous function and low-grade inflammation in children with sleep-disordered breathing.

METHODS

We enrolled habitually snoring children aged 3-14 years for overnight polysomnography (PSG) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) measurement. Low-grade inflammation was defined as hsCRP >1.0 mg/L to <10.0 mg/L. An electrocardiogram recording was extracted from PSG. Heart rate variability was analyzed using time and frequency domain methods.

RESULTS

In total, 190 children were included, with 61 having primary snoring (PS), 39 mild obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and 90 moderate-to-severe OSA. The average RR interval displayed a significant decline, whereas the low frequency/high frequency (LF/HF) ratio showed an increasing tendency in children with PS, mild OSA, and moderate-to-severe OSA. Mean RR was mainly influenced by age and the apnea hypopnea index (AHI) (all P < 0.01). AHI was an independent risk factor for the altered LF/HF ratio at all sleep stages except N3 stage (all P < 0.05). In the wake stage, low-grade inflammation was an independent risk factor of altered LF/HF ratio (P = 0.014).

CONCLUSIONS

Autonomic nervous function was impaired in children with OSA. The sympathetic-vagal balance was influenced by low-grade inflammation in the wake stage, whereas it was only affected by AHI when falling asleep.

IMPACT

We found that autonomic nervous function was impaired in children with OSA. We found that there was a negative correlation between systemic inflammation and autonomic nervous function in children with SDB only at wake stage. A negative association between systemic inflammation and autonomic nervous function was demonstrated in children in this study. Furthermore, altered LF/HF ratio maybe a good indicator of autonomic nervous dysfunction in children as it only correlated with the SDB severity, not with age.

Management of pharyngeal collapse in patients affected by moderate obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome

Objective

This study reports our experience in a selected cohort of patients affected by mild-moderate OSAS, without tonsillar obstruction, and treated with pharyngoplasty.

Methods

In a case-control retrospective study, we compared modified expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty (MESP) to modified barbed reposition pharyngoplasty (MBRP) in adult patients with oropharyngeal transversal collapse with a BMI ≤ 30 kg/m², and mild-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS). A clinical evaluation, including collection of anthropometric data and sleep endoscopy, was performed. Six months after surgery, symptoms recording, clinical evaluation and polysomnography (PSG) were repeated.

Results

We enrolled 20 patients: 10 treated with MESP and 10 treated with MBRP. Mean apnoea-hypoapnoea index (AHI) was 22.8 (± 5.63). We observed in both groups a significant reduction of AHI and oropharyngeal obstruction (p = 0.01), with a success rate, according with Sher’s criteria, of 90% for MESP and 80% for MBRP, respectively. Post-surgical pain and snoring reduction were significantly lower with MBRP.

Conclusions

We recorded similar success rates for both techniques. MBRP may be considered better than MESP due to less surgical time, no potential mucosal damage, absence of knots, and faster recovery with less pain.

Association between the intensity of obstructive sleep apnea and skeletal alterations in the face and hyoid bone

Introduction

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Assessment of event-related evoked potentials and China-Wechsler intelligence scale for cognitive dysfunction in children with obstructive sleep apnea

OBJECTIVE

To explore the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and cognitive impairment by combining event-related evoked potentials (ERPs) and China-Wechsler Younger Children Scale (C-WISC) in children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) with vs. without OSA.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case-control study of all consecutive children (n = 148) with adenoid tonsil hypertrophy between July 2017 and March 2019 at the Hospital.

RESULTS

The children were divided into the OSA (n = 102) and non-OSA (n = 46) groups. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), obstructive apnea index (OAI), and obstructive apnea-hypopnea index (OAHI) in the OSA group were elevated compared with those of the non-OSA group (all P < 0.001). The mean oxygen saturation (SaO₂) and SaO₂ nadir were lower in the OSA group compared with the non-OSA group (both P < 0.001). The respiratory arousal index (RAI) values in the OSA group were larger than those of the non-OSA group (P < 0.001). The P300 and N100 latencies in the OSA group were longer than those of the non-OSA group (both P < 0.001). Pearson's correlation analysis revealed correlations of the P300 peak latency with full-scale intelligence quotient (FIQ) (P < 0.001 and r = -0.527), verbal intelligence quotient (VIQ) (P < 0.001 and r = -0.448), and performance intelligence quotient (PIQ) (P < 0.001 and r = -0.515). There was a correlation between the N100 peak latency and PIQ (P = 0.026 and r = -0.183).

CONCLUSION

ERPs, as an objective measurement, might help assess cognitive impairment in children with OSA.

A Novel Assessment Method With Ultrasound for Obstructive Tonsillar Hypertrophy in Children

OBJECTIVES

To develop a new method for the objective evaluation of airway obstruction due to tonsillar hypertrophy using ultrasound (US) in children.

METHODS

The oropharynx was examined in patients, and tonsil grades were evaluated according to the staging system of Brodsky et al (Int J Pediatr Otorhinolaryngol 1987; 13:149-156). The narrowest intertonsillar distance (ITD) and widest transverse length of the tongue base (TLTB) were then measured by US, and their ratio was calculated. The clinical value of US was investigated for the classification of tonsillar hypertrophies as nonobstructive or obstructive by matching the patients' clinical grades with the US data.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients (age range, 2-12 years) were included in the study. According to the Brodsky staging system, 44.1% and 55.9% of the patients were in nonobstructive (stages I and II) and obstructive (stages III and IV) tonsillar hypertrophy groups, respectively. The area under the curve was 0.991 (95% confidence interval, 0.977-0.999) according to a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis between the Brodsky staging and the ITD/TLTB ratio. The optimal cutoff value for the ITD/TLTB ratio for the diagnosis of obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy was found to be 0.3 or less, which had 96.5% sensitivity and 95.6% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS

The degree of airway obstruction due to tonsillar hypertrophy can be objectively determined by US in children. An ITD/TLTB ratio of 0.3 or less was found to be compatible with obstructive tonsillar hypertrophy. This new and easily applicable evaluation method may provide considerable value and guidance for tonsillectomy decisions.

Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome in the obese and non-obese: Clinical, polysomnographical and clinical characteristics

INTRODUCTION

Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) and childhood obesity are two high prevalence conditions that represent a public health challenge.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the association between both and comparing child groups that had or did not have both conditions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective study in children (3-14 years), referred to the "Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit" due to suspected SAHS, between 1 November 2015 and 1 August 2017. The following parameters were evaluated: anthropometry, symptoms, blood pressure, ear, nose, and throat examination, polysomnography (nocturnal PSG) and laboratory tests.

RESULTS

A total of 67 children were evaluated (64% non-obese (NOb) and 36% obese (Ob). It was observed that the Ob were older (P < .001), slept less hours (P = .028), did less physical exercise (P = .029), ate less in the school dining room (P = .009), had la lower sleep efficiency, and had abnormal values in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The children with SAHS were younger (P = .010), a high percentage of daytime sleepiness (P = .001), and breathing through the mouth (P = .006), greater percentile of diastolic blood pressure (P = .019) and a lower IGF-1 (P = .003) than those that did not have SAHS. The comparison of the SAHS NOb and SAHS Ob groups, showed that the first group were younger (P = .010), snored more (P = .012), had a more severe SAHS (IAH 13.1 vs 5.4, P = .041), and a higher GOT (P < .001). In the second group, they slept less hours P = .038) and showed lower values of glucose (P = .039), insulin (P < .001), and HOMA (P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The behaviour of SAHS is different in obese children and non-obese children, with differences in age, clinical characteristics, severity of SAHS, and metabolic changes. The children diagnosed with SAHS were in the higher percentile of diastolic blood pressure. Obesity was associated with worse sleep quality, and changes in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

Monopolar electrocautery tip vs plasma ablation in tonsillotomy: A randomized case-control study comparing outcomes in pediatric population

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to compare the low-priced monopolar electrocautery to the high-priced, worldwide used, plasma ablation in tonsillotomy among children aged between three and twelve years, suffering from obstructive breathing disorders (OBD), with respect to post-operative pain, bleeding and related morbidities.

METHODS

A randomized case-control study was conducted in the Eye and Ear Hospital International- Lebanon. 103 children aged between three and twelve years suffering from OBD secondary to tonsillar hypertrophy were randomly assigned into two groups. Post-operative pain was evaluated using age-adequate validated scales: "FLACC-R" (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability-Revised) for children aged less than five years, and "Wong Baker faces" for older children. Additional post-operative outcomes were evaluated using Pain-PROM (Patient reported Pain-Related Outcome Measures) and TAHSI (Tonsil and Adenoid Health Status Instrument) scales.

RESULTS

Significantly, higher rates of patients who underwent tonsillotomy via plasma ablation technique used analgesics and had severe pain compared to the monopolar electrocautery group. A longer operative duration was significantly associated with higher pain scores, and the plasma ablation technique yielded significantly higher operative mean durations. 10 days post-operatively, a significantly higher percentage of children reported an overall high pain severity and more than expected overall pain when using the plasma ablation technique compared to the monopolar electrocautery one. Overall bleeding rates were similar. No difference was reported one month post-operatively.

CONCLUSION

When compared to plasma ablation, monopolar electrocautery, can provide the same efficiency in relieving OBD in healthy children, with equal overall bleeding rates, but significantly lower cost, operating time, pain scores and need for analgesics.

Low vitamin D levels and frequencies of regulatory T cells (Tregs) are associated with adenotonsillar hypertrophy in children

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the levels of vitamin D and the frequencies of regulatory T cells (%Tregs) in children undergoing adenotonsillectomies (T&As) and their controls.

METHODS

We prospectively collected data from 130 children aged from 2 to 14 years old undergoing T&As and 60 undergoing unrelated elective procedures from November 1, 2015 to December 20, 2017 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University. Demographic and disease specific data was obtained in addition to blood samples for the measurement of 25-hydroxy (OH)-vitamin D, interleukin-10 and %Tregs.

RESULTS

Among the 130 patients undergoing T&As who had 25(OH) vitamin D levels measured, 40.8% were vitamin D deficient (25(OH) vitamin D < 20 ng/mL), 42.3% were insufficient (20 ng/mL < 25(OH) vitamin D < 30 ng/mL), only 16.9% were sufficient (25(OH) vitamin D > 30 ng/mL). Compared with the control group, children undergoing adenotonsillectomies exhibited a significant decrease in the level of serum 25(OH) vitamin D and %Tregs (p < 0.01, p < 0.01). The level of 25(OH) vitamin D and % Tregs did not correlate to parameters like BMI, age, sex in the children undergoing T&As. The lower Vitamin D levels were related to higher OSA-18 scores (Pearson correlation, r = -0.476, p < 0.01), tonsil size (Spearman rank correlation, r = -0.563)and adenoid size (Spearman rank correlation, r = -0.291). In the different vitamin D concentration groups, the mean values of %Tregs were not equal (ANOVA, F = 7.389, p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Children undergoing T&As have a lower level of 25(OH) vitamin D and %Tregs. Low 25(OH) vitamin D levels were related to higher OSA-18 scores and greater lymphoid tissue size rather than sex, age, increased BMI. Vitamin D and Treg cells are associated with adenotonsillar hypertrophy.

Predicting the outcome after adenoidectomy-alone for adenoid hypertrophy causing sleep disordered breathing

PURPOSE

By using preoperative parameters age, body mass index, nasopharyngeal obstruction as assessed using flexible videonasopharyngoscopy, and quality of life scores in patients undergoing adenoidectomy-alone because of adenoid hypertrophy causing sleep disordered breathing, we aimed to examine the relationship between the change in quality of life scores, and preoperative parameters and to develop a tool to predict the change.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who were scheduled for adenoidectomy-alone in a 12-month period were included. Flexible videnonasopharyngoscopy of the nasopharynx was performed. Nasopharyngeal obstruction was measured by using Image J software. Preoperative quality of life was evaluated using OSA-18 quality of life survey. OSA-18 survey has 5 subcategories consisting of sleep disturbance (O1), physical suffering (O2), emotional distress (O3), daytime problems (O4), caregiver concerns (O5). A question about the overall quality of life(O6) was added. Postoperative OSA-18 domain scores were obtained at the 3-month-follow-up. Preoperative OSA-18 subscores were compared to postoperative subscores. Linear regression analysis to predict the proportional change in OSA-18 subscores was performed.

RESULTS

Our study group consisted of 94 cases. Mean postoperative O1, O2,O3, O4 and O5 scores were significantly lower compared to the preoperative scores. Mean postoperative O6 score was significantly higher. Linear regression analysis was carried out for predicting change in O1(r2 = 0.686; p = 0.006), O5(r2 = 0.711; p = 0.003) and O6(r2 = 0.757; p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Change in quality of life scores for sleep disturbance, physical suffering and general quality of life may be predicted by using preoperative parameters.

[Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome in the obese and non-obese: clinical, polysomnographical and clinical characteristics]

INTRODUCTION

Sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) and childhood obesity are la high prevalence conditions that represent a public health challenge.

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the association between both and comparing child groups that had or did not have both conditions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective study in children (3-14 years), referred to the "Multidisciplinary Sleep Unit" due to suspected SAHS, between 1 November 2015 and 1 August 2017. The following parameters were evaluated: anthropometry, symptoms, blood pressure, ear, nose, and throat examination, polysomnography (nocturnal PSG) and laboratory tests.

RESULTS

A total of 67 children were evaluated (64% non-obese and 36% obese. It was observed that the obese were older (P<.001), slept less hours (P=.028), did less physical exercise (P=.029), ate less in the school dining room (P=.009), had la lower sleep efficiency, and had abnormal values in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. The children with SAHS were younger (P=.010), a high percentage of daytime sleepiness (P=.001), and breathing through the mouth (P=.006), greater percentile of diastolic blood pressure (P=.019) and a lower IGF-1 (P=.003) than those that did not have SAHS. The comparison of the SAHS non-obese and SAHS obese groups, showed that the first group were younger (P=.010), snored more (P=.012), had a more severe SAHS (IAH 13.1 vs. 5.4, P=.041), and a higher GOT (P<.001). In the second group, they slept less hours P=.038) and showed lower values of glucose (P=.039), insulin (P<.001), and HOMA (P<.001).

CONCLUSION

The behaviour of SAHS is different in obese children and non-obese children, with differences in age, clinical characteristics, severity of SAHS, and metabolic changes. The children diagnosed with SAHS were in the higher percentile of diastolic blood pressure. Obesity was associated with worse sleep quality, and changes in carbohydrate and lipid metabolism.

The Effect of Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy on Isolated Sleep Associated Hypoventilation in Children

OBJECTIVE

Sleep associated hypoventilation (SAH) is diagnosed when more than 25% of total sleep time (%TST) is spent with end tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO₂ ) > 50 mmHg. SAH in children occurs as a single entity or combined with obstructive sleep apnea. Outcomes of surgical treatment for isolated SAH in children have not been reported.

METHODS

The medical charts of children who were diagnosed with isolated SAH and did not have OSA at a tertiary children's hospital between January 2013 and December 2019 were reviewed. Data collection included information on history and physical examination, past medical history, polysomnography (PSG) findings, and surgical management.

RESULTS

Seventeen children (10 male, 7 female, age range: 3-14 years) were diagnosed with isolated SAH. Comorbid conditions included asthma in four children, Down syndrome in one, and seizure in two. Eight children were normal weight, four were overweight, and five were obese. Children did not have obstructive or central sleep apnea. Three children (18%) had persistent SAH as documented by PSG. All normal weight children had resolution of SAH whereas two obese children and one overweight child had residual SAH. %TST with CO₂ > 50 mmHg after upper airway surgery (3.4% ± 1.6%) was significantly less than that of before TA (59.1% ± 5.5%) (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of children with isolated SAH had normalization of hypercapnia after TA. Further studies in larger groups of children are needed to identify the risk factors for residual isolated SAH after TA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 131:E1380-E1382, 2021.

Association between adenotonsillar hypertrophy and leptin, ghrelin and IGF-1 levels in children

OBJECTIVE

Developmental and growth retardation is a condition that is often encountered among children with adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH). Leptin, ghrelin and IGF-1 are important factors in growth and development for children. The aim of the study was to investigate serum leptin, ghrelin and IGF-1 levels in children with ATH compare with healthy controls.

MATERIAL METHOD

82 children between ages 6-12 were included in this study, divided into two groups. The first group being the study-group consisted of 42 children with obstructive adenotonsillar hypertrophy and the second group being the control-group consisted of 40 healthy children. At 08:30 a.m., peripheral blood samples were extracted from children from both groups to examine the serum levels, and kept in -40 °C until the Elisa test.

RESULTS

Leptin serum level of the control-group was found to be statistically significantly higher than the serum leptin level of the ATH group (p = 0,049; p < 0.05). Body mass indexes of the children with ATH were found to be statistically significantly lower than the body mass index (BMI) of the control group (p = 0,001; p < 0.05). In contrast, there was no statistically significant difference between ghrelin and IGF-1 levels between the ATH and control group (p = 0.193, p > 0.05 and p = 0.478, p > 0.05, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Upper airway infections are common in children with ATH. Increased airway infections and obstructive enlarged adenotonsillar lymphoid tissue which are caused swallowing difficulties can lead to reduced oral intake and fat tissue. It has led us to think that, ghrelin levels may be increasing secondary to these problems in children with ATH. Furthermore, BMI and leptin would be lower in children with ATH, considering adipose tissue was lesser and leptin was being synthesized and oscillated out of the fat cells of the tissue in these children.

Sleep-Wake Disorders in Childhood

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The presentation of sleep issues in childhood differs from the presentation in adulthood and may be more subtle. Sleep issues may affect children differently than adults, and distinct treatment approaches are often used in children.

RECENT FINDINGS

Sodium oxybate was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in October 2018 for an expanded indication of treatment of sleepiness or cataplexy in patients with narcolepsy type 1 or narcolepsy type 2 aged 7 years or older, with side effect and safety profiles similar to those seen in adults. Restless sleep disorder is a recently proposed entity in which restless sleep, daytime sleepiness, and often iron deficiency are observed, but children do not meet the criteria for restless legs syndrome or periodic limb movement disorder.

SUMMARY

Children's sleep is discussed in this article, including normal sleep patterns and effects of insufficient sleep. Sleep disorders of childhood are reviewed, including insomnia, obstructive sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, parasomnias, narcolepsy, and Kleine-Levin syndrome. Children with neurologic issues or neurodevelopmental disorders frequently have sleep disorders arising from an interaction of heterogeneous factors. Further attention to sleep may often be warranted through a polysomnogram or referral to a pediatric sleep specialist. Sleep disorders may cause indelible effects on children's cognitive functioning, general health, and well-being, and awareness of sleep disorders is imperative for neurologists who treat children.

Evaluation of symptoms of preopoperative and postoperative psychosomatic screening in children with adenoidectomy and adenotonsillectomy

INTRODUCTION

Adenoidectomy and adenotonsillectomy are very common operations in childhood. It is important to clarify their effects on this age group; in this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of the causative agent on children's mental health by using scales that help to screen for indications of mental disorders in children, who have had adenoidectomy or adenotonsillectomy, both before and after surgery. In this way, we aimed to investigate the effects of this factor on children's mental health.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study included 82 children aged 6-12 years with signs of upper respiratory tract obstruction or recurrent adenotonsilitis. Adenotonsillectomy was performed in 41 patients included in the study and adenoidectomy was performed in 41 patients included in the study. 40 healthy children matched with the patient groups in terms of age and gender were included in the control group. Patients, were divided into three groups, those who underwent adenoidectomy, patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy and those in the control group Preoperative and postoperative questionnaires were used to investigate the effect of tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy on the mental health of children. The Parents' Form for the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Parental Form for the Children's Anxiety Screening Scale, the Sleeping Scale for Children and the Quality of Life Scale for Children were used in the screening.

RESULTS

In children, who underwent adenoidectomy/adenotonsillectomy due to recurrent infection and adeno/adenotonsillar hypertrophy; it was seen that there was a significant decrease in the scores for the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Anxiety Screening Scale in Children, and the Sleep Scale in Children, and a significant increase in Quality of Life Scale for Children scores.

OUTCOME

In conclusion, adenoidectomy/adenotonsillectomy in children with sleep apnea due to recurrent episodes of infection and adeno/adenotonsillar hypertrophy was thought to prevent further neurobehavioral problems, likely to become more complex in the future, and to improve quality of life.

Assessment of Tonsil Volume With Transcervical Ultrasonography in Both Children and Adults

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the success of ultrasonography (USG) in the objective measurement of palatin tonsil volume in both children and adults and to compare those results with clinical findings.

METHODS

Eighty-five patients, who were scheduled to undergo tonsillectomy with the indications of recurrent tonsillitis and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, were included in the study. The tonsil grades of the patients were recorded according to the Friedman tonsil grading. The tonsil size and volume were measured with transcervical USG. After tonsillectomy, the volumes of the tonsils were calculated by the displacement method. The correlation between the obtained data was evaluated. In all analyses, P < .05 was accepted as a statistical level of significance.

RESULTS

Fifty children and 35 adults were included in the study. In children, the mean actual volume ± SD of 100 tonsils was measured as 3.5 ± 1.45 mL, and the USG volume was 3.67 ± 1.59 mL; a high correlation was found between both methods (r = 0.842; P < .05). In adults, the mean actual volume of 70 tonsils was measured as 5.15 ± 2.25 mL, and the USG volume was 5.71 ± 2.98 mL; a moderate correlation was found between the methods (r = 0.589; P < .05). In children, a moderate correlation was found between the Friedman grading and the USG (r = 0.532; P < .05), and actual (r = 0.549; P < .05) tonsil volumes. In adults, a low correlation was found between the Friedman grading and the USG (r = 0.363; P < .05) and actual (r = 0.384; P < .05) tonsil volumes.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasonography is a useful, accessible, and noninvasive imaging method for objective measurement of tonsil volume in adults and children.

Evaluation of Tonsillotomy Effects on Pharyngeal Volume and Compliance in Children

Our objective was to assess whether adenotonsillotomy improved pharyngeal compliance, which is a risk factor for sleep-disordered breathing. Otherwise healthy children underwent Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)-18 questionnaire and a pre- and postoperative acoustic pharyngometry in both sitting and supine positions, allowing the measurement of the volume of the palatine tonsil region and pharyngeal compliance. Thirty-five children (median age 5.3 years) were enrolled; they were reevaluated at a median of 18 days (25th-75th percentiles, 15-25) after surgery. Participants were compared according to a normal (n = 18) or an increased (n = 17) preoperative pharyngeal compliance. Surgery was associated with a significant decrease in OSA-18 and Brodsky scores, with a median increase in palatine volume of 0.13 cm3 (25th-75th percentiles, 0.00-0.73). A decrease in pharyngeal compliance was observed in children with increased preoperative compliance. The variation of palatine volume after surgery was positively related to the variation of pharyngeal compliance, suggesting that obstruction relief was associated with muscle relaxation in children with normal preoperative compliance.

Associations among sleep symptoms, physical examination, and polysomnographic findings in children with obstructive sleep apnea

PURPOSE

The relationships among PSG findings, OSA symptoms, and tonsil and adenoid size are not clear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the associations between pediatric OSA and tonsil and adenoid size using subjective (OSA-18 questionnaire) and objective (PSG) measurements.

METHODS

101 consecutive patients aged from 2 to 12 years (mean age, 5.4 ± 2.2 years; boys, 72.3%) diagnosed with OSA were enrolled in two age groups (2-6 years group and 7-12 years group) and underwent PSG and lateral cephalometric radiography. Tonsil size and the adenoid-nasopharyngeal (A/N) ratio were determined. Quality of life and sleep symptoms were measured using the Chinese version OSA-18 questionnaire. Demographic and clinical data were obtained.

RESULTS

75 and 26 patients were separately enrolled in 2-6 years group and 7-12 years group. In 2-6 years group, the multiple linear regression revealed that tonsil size and A/N ratio were associated with log apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), and the Spearman's rank correlation reflected a positive correlation between log AHI and the OSA-18 sleep disturbance score (r = 0.362, P = 0.001). Log OSA-18 score was correlated with tonsil size (r = 0.349, P = 0.002) but not the A/N ratio in 2-6 years group. Finally, no significant associations were observed between log OSA-18 scores and log AHI in all patients.

CONCLUSION

As PSG stays the golden standard for diagnoses of pediatric OSA, physical examinations and quality-of-life assessments are needed to fully assess the impact of OSA on children.

Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Upper Airway Structures in Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Importance

Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is an important cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children. However, residual OSA and abnormal polysomnographic findings have been reported in up to 75% of cases after adenotonsillectomy. Other anatomical and functional factors that influence upper airway structures, including the lateral pharyngeal wall, have rarely been studied in children with OSA.

Objective

To determine whether the upper airway structures can be evaluated using head and neck ultrasonography and if there is an association between the ultrasonographic measurements for these structures and severity of OSA seen on polysomnography in children.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective, single-center, observational study of 82 children younger than 18 years with a diagnosis of sleep-disordered breathing (20 with primary snoring, 62 with OSA, as determined by the apnea-hypopnea index) and admitted to a tertiary teaching hospital for adenotonsillectomy.

Exposures

Ultrasonography and polysomnography.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Ultrasonographic measurements of upper airway structures.

Results

Of the 82 children studied, 62 (76%) were boys; mean (SD) age, 7.7 (6.2). There was no significant difference found in tonsillar dimensions or volume between the children with OSA and those with primary snoring. However, the mean (SD) total lateral pharyngeal wall and the total neck thicknesses at the retropalatal level were both greater in children with OSA than in those with primary snoring at rest (24.9 [4.4] mm vs 21.3 [2.6] mm; difference, 3.61 mm; 95% CI of difference, 1.48-5.74 mm for lateral pharyngeal wall; and 59.9 [14.4] mm vs 49.9 [11.2] mm; difference, 10.9 mm, 95% CI of difference, 3.8-17.9 mm for the total neck).

Conclusions and Relevance

Estimated tonsillar volume measured using ultrasonography had no relationship with the apnea-hypopnea index in childhood sleep-disordered breathing. However, the lateral pharyngeal wall was significantly thicker in children with OSA than in those with primary snoring at rest.

Swallowing patterns after adenotonsillectomy in children

IMPORTANCE

Hypertrophy of the pharyngeal and palatine tonsils can interfere with breathing, physical and cognitive development, and quality of life, including sleep quality. There are important relationships between the muscles of the airways, the anatomy, and the pattern of breathing and swallowing.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of the present study were to evaluate the swallowing process in children after adenotonsillectomy undertaken to treat obstructive breathing disorders.

METHODS

Subjects were 85 children or adolescents who underwent adenotonsillectomy in a reference hospital between 2003 and 2007. For the clinical evaluation of swallowing, the protocol of orofacial myofunctional evaluation with scores (OMES) was used, videofluoroscopy of deglutition was performed, and the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS) and Classification for Severity of Dysphagia to Videofluoroscopy Scale were applied for analysis.

RESULTS

Out of the 85 evaluated children, 43 were male (50.59%), the average age at evaluation was 12.11 years, the average age at the time of surgery was 6.73 years, and post-surgery time was 3.00-8.00 years. In the clinical evaluation of swallowing, half the sample (50.59%) recorded the poorest score for lip and tongue behavior. A score of 1 was observed in 67.06% of subjects for other behaviors, and in 15.30% of subjects for efficiency of swallowing. Videofluoroscopic analysis demonstrated that the most frequent swallowing alterations were labial sealing (50.59%), residue in vallecula (51.76%), and use of compensatory maneuvers (61.18%). Analysis of DOSS showed that normal swallowing was attributed to 48.31% of subjects at level 7, 44.95% at level 6, and 6.74% at level 5. For the Classification for Severity of Dysphagia to Videofluoroscopy, 75.28% were classified as having mild dysphagia.

INTERPRETATION

Alterations in the dynamics of swallowing are common in children who have undergone surgery of the tonsils, even at late follow-up.

Correlations between obstructive sleep apnea and adenotonsillar hypertrophy in children of different weight status

The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between OSA and adenotonsillar size in children of different weight status. A total of 451 patients aged 2–13 years with suspected OSA were retrospectively enrolled in the study. Correlations between the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and adenotonsillar size in different weight status were investigated. The adenoidal/nasopharyngeal (A/N) ratio of underweight children was significantly higher than that of normal-weight children (P = 0.027). Both adenoid and tonsil size were positively correlated with logAHI in children of normal weight (r = 0.210, P = 0.001; and r = 0.212, P = 0.001) but uncorrelated in the other groups. Gender (OR = 1.49, 95% CI: 1.01–2.20, P = 0.043), obese (OR = 1.93, 95% CI: 1.10–3.40, P = 0.012), A/N ratio (OR = 1.55, 95% CI: 1.28–1.88, P < 0.001) and tonsil size (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.18–1.57, P < 0.001) were all associated with the severity of OSA. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy contributed to OSA in normal-weight children. In children of abnormal weight, instead of treatment for adenotonsillar hypertrophy, appropriate treatments for other factors are required.

Revisit rates following pediatric coblation tonsillectomy

OBJECTIVE

To explore the rate of emergency department (ED) revisits and hospital readmissions following coblation tonsillectomy in children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and/or recurrent tonsillitis.

METHODS

A total of 2045 children underwent coblation tonsillectomy were recruited in the retrospective study. The number of revisits or readmissions was recorded and the reasons were analyzed.

RESULTS

Overall, 119 (5.8%) had unplanned revisits after surgery. Of those children, 98 (4.8%) had one revisit, 19 (0.92%) had second revisits, and 2 (0.097%) had third revisits. The interval between surgery and first revisit or second revisit was 7.1 ± 5.2 days and 11.3 ± 4.8 days, respectively. The reasons for first revisits were hemorrhage, fever, pain, nausea/vomiting, dehydration. The reasons for second revisits were pain, hemorrhage, fever. Children with younger age (1-3 years old) and more blood loss during surgery had higher rate of first revisit rate. Most revisits were controlled well and only 4 cases of re-surgery was needed.

CONCLUSIONS

Revisit rate and reason after coblation tonsillectomy in children were similar to other surgical methods. Coblation tonsillectomy is a safe and effective surgery for children.

Barbed palatoplasty vs. expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty with anterior palatoplasty

OBJECTIVE/HYPOTHESIS

To compare the functional outcomes and complication rates in patients who underwent expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty with anterior palatoplasty (ESPwAP) versus barbed pharyngoplasty (BP).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

A medical database was used to retrieve the records of 129 patients who had an isolated palatoplasty surgery between January 2014 and July 2018. Patients who had mild or moderate obstructive sleep apnea without a history of revision surgery and underwent ESPwAP or BP in addition to traditional tonsillectomy were included in the study. Pre- and postoperative polysomnography and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) was evaluated in the patients who completed at least a 6-month follow-up period.

RESULTS

Forty-five and 53 patients met the inclusion, and were comprised of BP and ESPwAP groups, respectively. ESPwAP and BP significantly improved mean apnea hypopnea index (AHI) from 28.5 to 9.1 (P = .000) and 25.9 to 7.4 (P = .000), respectively. No significant statistical difference was found between the mean AHI scores of two groups. Selecting a threshold of a 50% reduction in AHI and AHI less than 20 events/h, success rates were 86.6% in BP group and 84.9% in ESPwAP group.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that both types of surgeries are effective with comparable results. The BP technique may be preferred when possible to avoid soft tissue excision and seems to be a less invasive procedure with a similar success rate when compared to ESPwAP.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 130:E275-E279, 2020.

Tonsil size and outcome of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty with tonsillectomy in obstructive sleep apnea

OBJECTIVES/HYPOTHESIS

To investigate the relationship of tonsil volume and grade on outcomes of uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) with tonsillectomy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective cohort analysis.

METHODS

Data of 70 consecutive patients undergoing UPPP with tonsillectomy between 2015 and 2018 were analyzed. Patients with an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) <10/hr or concomitant surgery other than nasal surgery were excluded. Tonsil volume was measured intraoperatively. Preoperatively and 3 months after surgery we assessed the AHI using respiratory polygraphy, daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), and a visual analog scale for the snoring index (SI).

RESULTS

Tonsil grade and volume both showed a significant correlation with preoperative AHI. Postoperative AHI was not significantly different between grades and volume. The AHI reduction after surgery increased significantly with larger volume and higher tonsil grade. For all grades, the postoperative ESS was significantly reduced compared to the preoperative value, but was not significantly correlated with tonsil volume. Preoperative and postoperative SI was not significantly correlated between tonsil grade or volume. In all grades, SI was significantly reduced after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, we found that large tonsils are responsible for higher preoperative AHI values, and their removal leads to greater reduction of initial AHI. However, the postoperative effect on daytime sleepiness and snoring reduction is not significantly correlated with tonsil size and volume, indicating that these parameters are mainly influenced by other factors. The knowledge of the significance of tonsil size and volume is important for ear, nose, and throat physicians when counseling OSA patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2c Laryngoscope, 129:E449-E454, 2019.

Right Atrial Deformation Mechanics in Children with Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy

BACKGROUND

Children with significant adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) may show right ventricular (RV) dysfunction. We aimed to evaluate RV dysfunction in such children before adenotonsillectomy by evaluating peak longitudinal right atrial (RA) strain (PLRAS) in systole. PLRAS, electrocardiogram (ECG) and conventional echocardiographic parameters were compared to distinguish children with significant ATH with sleep-related breathing disorder (ATH-SRBD) from controls.

METHODS

Fifty-six children (23 controls and 33 children with ATH-SRBD without symptoms of heart failure) were retrospectively studied. Preoperative echocardiograms and ECGs of children with ATH-SRBD who underwent adenotonsillectomy were compared to those of controls. Available postoperative ECGs and echocardiograms were also analyzed.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, prolonged maximum P-wave duration (Pmax) and P-wave dispersion (PWD), decreased PLRAS, and increased tricuspid annulus E/E′ were found in children with ATH-SRBD compared to those of controls. From the receiver operating characteristic curves, PLRAS was not inferior compared to tricuspid annulus E/E′, Pmax, and PWD in differentiating children with ATH-SRBD from controls; however, the discriminative abilities of all four parameters were poor. In children who underwent adenotonsillectomy, echocardiograms 1.2 ± 0.4 years after adenotonsillectomy showed no difference in postoperative PLRAS and tricuspid annulus E/E′ when compared with those of the preoperative period.

CONCLUSIONS

Impaired RA deformation was reflected as decreased PLRAS in children with ATH-SRBD before adenotonsillectomy. Decreased PLRAS in these children may indicate subtle RV dysfunction and increased proarrhythmic risk. However, usefulness of PLRAS as an individual parameter in differentiating preoperative children with ATH-SRBD from controls was limited, similar to those of tricuspid annulus E/E′, Pmax, and PWD.

Risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome in Chinese children: A single center retrospective case-control study

Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome is caused by multiple factors. The present study aimed to investigate the potential risks of pediatric obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and their correlation with the disease severity. A total of 338 pediatric patients with OSAHS (polysomnography (PSG) diagnosis) were enrolled between June 2008 and October 2010. These pediatric patients were divided into mild, moderate and severe subgroups according to the obstructive apnea index (OAI) and/or apnea hypoventilation index (AHI). A total of 338 pediatric patients with vocal nodules who were without obstruction of the upper respiratory tract were enrolled as the control group. The patients were analyzed retrospectively. The average number of upper respiratory tract infections each year and tonsil hypertrophy, adenoid hypertrophy, positive serum tIgE, chronic sinusitis, nasal stenosis, craniofacial features and obesity were significantly higher in OSAHS compared with controls (P<0.01). The parameters the average number of upper respiratory tract infections each year (OR: 1.395, 95% CI: 1.256–1.550), adenoid hypertrophy (OR: 8.632, 95% CI: 3.990–18.672), tonsil hypertrophy (OR: 9.138, 95% CI: 4.621–18.073), nasal stenosis (8.023, 95% CI: 3.633–17.717) and chronic sinusitis (OR: 27.186, 95% CI: 13.310–55.527) were independent factors of pediatric OSAHS (P<0.01). The distribution of chronic sinusitis, nasal stenosis, craniofacial features and obesity indicated a gradual increasing trend in the severity of OSAHS (P<0.01). Number of upper respiratory tract infections per year, adenoid hypertrophy, tonsil hypertrophy, chronic sinusitis, nasal stenosis, infections, allergic reactions, craniofacial features and obesity may be potential risk factors of pediatric OSAHS.

Distortion product otoacoustic emission together with tympanometry for assessing otitis media with effusion in children

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the diagnostic value of distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE) together with tympanometry in assessing otitis media with effusion in children.

METHODS

Three hundred and thirty-nine patients, who were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) and prepared to undergo adenotonsillectomy and had a unilateral or bilateral type 'B' or 'C' tympanogram were enrolled in this study. Patients were divided into the following four groups: Group 1, type 'B' tympanogram with positive DPOAE; Group 2, type 'B' tympanogram with negative DPOAE; Group 3, type 'C' tympanogram with positive DPOAE and Group 4, type 'C' tympanogram with negative DPOAE.

RESULTS

Tympanometry showed a type 'B' pattern in 467 ears and type 'C' pattern in 163 ears. Among 163 ears with type 'C' tympanogram, negative DPOAE results were seen in 96 ears. Group 4 (56/96) had a significant high rate of middle ear effusion than Group 3 (14/67) (p < .05). In patients with a type 'C' tympanogram, those with a low compliance value (∼0.25 ml), concurrent chronic tonsillitis and large tonsils are likely to have middle ear effusion.

CONCLUSIONS

DPOAE could be a great help in screening for middle ear effusion in patients with a type 'C' tympanogram.

Is there an association between vitamin D deficiency and adenotonsillar hypertrophy in children with sleep-disordered breathing?

BACKGROUND

Low vitamin D levels have been linked to the risk of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children. Although adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) is the major contributor to childhood SDB, the relationship between ATH and serum vitamin D is uncertain. We therefore investigated the relationship between vitamin D levels and associated factors in children with ATH.

METHODS

We reviewed data from all children with SDB symptoms who were treated from December 2013 to February 2014. Of these, 88 children whose serum vitamin D levels were measured were enrolled in the study. We divided the children into four groups based on adenoidal and/or tonsillar hypertrophy. We conducted a retrospective chart review to analyze demographic data, the sizes of tonsils and adenoids, serum 25-hydroxy-vitamin D [25(OH)D] level, body mass index (BMI), and allergen sensitization patterns.

RESULTS

Children in the ATH group had a lower mean 25(OH)D level than did those in the control group (p < 0.05). Children with vitamin D deficiencies exhibited markedly higher frequencies of adenoidal and/or tonsillar hypertrophy than did those with sufficient vitamin D (p < 0.05). Spearman's correlation analysis identified an inverse correlation between serum 25(OH)D levels and age, tonsil and adenoid size, and height (all p < 0.05). In a multiple regression analysis, tonsil and adenoid size as well as BMI-z score, were associated with 25(OH)D levels after controlling for age, sex, height, and mite sensitization (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that low vitamin D levels are linked to ATH. Both the sizes of the adenoids and tonsils and the BMI-z score were associated with the 25(OH)D level. Therefore, measurement of the serum 25(OH)D level should be considered in children with ATH and SDB symptoms.

Pre-operative parameters do not reliably identify post-operative respiratory risk in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy

AIM

Adenotonsillectomy is performed in children with recurrent tonsillitis or obstructive sleep apnoea. Children at risk of post-operative respiratory complications are recommended to be monitored in paediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The aim of the study is to review the risk factors for post-operative complications and admissions to PICU.

METHODS

A review of medical records of children who underwent adenotonsillectomy between January 2011 and December 2014 was performed. Association between demographic variables and post-operative complications were examined using chi-square and Mann-Whitney tests.

RESULTS

A total of 214 children were identified, and of these, 19 (8.8%) experienced post-operative complications. Six children (2.8%) had respiratory complications: hypoxaemia in four and laryngospasm requiring reintubation in a further two. Both of the latter patients were extubated upon arrival to PICU and required no escalation of therapy. A total of 13 (6.1%) children had non-respiratory complications: 8 (3.7%) had infection and 5 (2.3%) had haemorrhage. A total of 26 (12.1%) children were electively admitted to PICU and mean stay was 19.5 (SD ± 13) h. No association between demographic characteristics, comorbid conditions or polysomnographic parameters and post-operative complications were noted. A total of 194 (90.7%) children stayed only one night in hospital (median 1 day, range 1-5 days).

CONCLUSION

The previously identified risk factors and criteria for PICU admission need revision, and new recommendations are necessary.

Behavioral consequences of children with sleep-disordered breathing after adenotonsillectomy

BACKGROUND

Adenotonsillectomy (AT) has been an effective treatment for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in children, and several studies described the risk of postoperative weight gain and obesity in children treated with AT. The present study aimed to evaluate behavioral improvements in children with SDB one year after adenotonsillectomy and to investigate an influence of postoperative weight gain on behaviors.

METHODS

The study included 170 children aged 5-11 years who underwent adenotonsillectomy for SDB and 150 controls. Body mass index percentile was obtained for age and gender, and parental sleep-related breathing disorder (SRBD) questionnaire was used to assess the severity of SDB. Psychological assessment was performed pre- and post-adenotonsillectomy using standardized questionnaires including strength and difficulties questionnaire, children's depression inventory and screen for child anxiety-related emotional disorder.

RESULTS

The mean age of 170 patients was 7.7 ± 1.5 years with 73 (42.9%) girls and 97 (57.1%) boys. The mean follow-up period were 15.4 ± 2.7 months. The patients had shown significant improvements in SDB scores as well as in questionnaire-based behavioral problems after adenotonsillectomy. The odds of a child being overweight were significantly increased after adenotonsillectomy. Less improvements in hyperactivity and conduct problems were observed in the patients with older ages, higher SRBD scores, and overweight/obesity at 1-year follow-up after adenotonsillectomy.

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that abnormal behavioral outcomes should be evaluated postoperatively, which potentially could be reduced with the early adenotonsillectomy and adequate postoperative weight control.

Association of palatine tonsil size and obstructive sleep apnea in adults

OBJECTIVE

The relationship between palatine tonsil (PT) size and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) has not been well established in adults. The purpose of this study was to test the association between PT grade, PT volume, and OSA severity in U.S. adult patients.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study of all patients (age ≥ 18 years) who underwent pharyngeal surgery for OSA that included palatine tonsillectomy with tonsil volume measurement from January 2011 to June 2016.

METHODS

Medical records were reviewed for PT grade (measured on clinical exam by the Brodsky tonsil grading scale), PT volume (measured intraoperatively by water displacement), and apnea-hypopnea index (AHI). Associations were evaluated with multivariate linear regression adjusting for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, lingual tonsil volume (AHI models only), and multilevel surgery aside from lingual tonsillectomy (PT volume vs. AHI model only).

RESULTS

The cohort (N = 83) was middle-aged (mean age 43 ± 12 years), predominantly male (61%), obese (mean BMI 33 ± 7 kg/m² ), and had severe OSA (mean AHI 32 ± 28). After adjustment for confounders, PT grade was strongly associated with PT volume (beta = 1.8, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.0, 2.6], P < 0.001) and with AHI (beta = 13.5, 95% CI: [3.5, 23.6], P = 0.01); PT volume was not associated with AHI (beta = -0.2, 95% CI: [-2.2, 1.9], P = 0.89).

CONCLUSION

In contrast to past studies, subjective PT grade (vs. objective PT volume) was more strongly associated with AHI. These data suggest the space that the tonsils occupy within the oropharyngeal airway, instead of their actual measured volume, may be more predictive of OSA severity in a cohort of U.S. adult patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

2c. Laryngoscope, 128:1002-1006, 2018.

Montelukast for Children with Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Results of a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial

RATIONALE

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is highly prevalent in children and is usually treated by adenotonsillectomy. Nonsurgical therapies for OSA consist primarily of antiinflammatory approaches and have gained popularity, but their efficacy remains to be critically examined.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of montelukast on pediatric OSA.

METHODS

A prospective randomized double-blind controlled trial of polysomnographically diagnosed OSA in children ages 2-10 years who were treated with either oral montelukast (4 or 5 mg daily) or placebo for 16 weeks. Adherence to the medication was ascertained using automated timed pill dispensers along with weekly telephonic reminders.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Ninety-two children diagnosed with OSA were approached, and 64 (69.6%) agreed to participate. Of these, 57 (89.0%) completed the 16-week trial, 28 in the montelukast group and 29 in the placebo group. Age, sex, and percentage of obesity were similar in the two groups, as were initial apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) scores. Overall, intention-to-treat analyses revealed that beneficial effects occurred in 20 children receiving montelukast (71.4%), whereas only 2 (6.9%) of the children receiving placebo showed reductions in AHI score (P < 0.001). Indeed, AHI decreased from 9.2 ± 4.1/hour total sleep time (TST) to 4.2 ± 2.8/hour TST (P < 0.0001) in montelukast-treated children, whereas in children receiving placebo, the AHI did not change (from 8.2 ± 5.0/h TST before to 8.7 ± 4.9/h TST at completion of the trial).

CONCLUSIONS

When compared with placebo, montelukast for 16 weeks effectively reduced the severity of obstructive sleep apnea in children 2-10 years of age. These results support a therapeutic role for leukotriene modifiers in pediatric OSA provided that long-term trials confirm current findings. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 00599534).

Clustering of craniofacial patterns in Korean children with snoring

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the craniofacial patterns of Korean children with snoring and adenotonsillar hypertrophy (ATH) could be categorized into characteristic clusters according to age.

Methods

We enrolled 236 children with snoring and ATH (age range, 5–12 years) in this study. They were subdivided into four age groups: 5–6, 7–8, 9–10, and 11–12 years. Based on cephalometric analysis, the sagittal and vertical skeletal patterns of each individual were divided into Class I, II, and III, as well as the normodivergent, hypodivergent, and hyperdivergent patterns, respectively. Cluster analysis was performed using cephalometric principal components in addition to the age factor.

Results

Three heterogeneous clusters of craniofacial patterns were obtained in relation to age: cluster 1 (41.9%) included patients aged 5–8 years with a skeletal Class I or mild Class II and hyperdivergent pattern; cluster 2 (45.3%) included patients aged 9–12 years with a Class II and hyperdivergent pattern; and cluster 3 (12.8%) included patients aged 7–8 years with a Class III and hyperdivergent pattern.

Conclusions

This study found that the craniofacial patterns of Korean children with snoring and ATH could be categorized into three characteristic clusters according to age groups. Although no significantly dominant sagittal skeletal discrepancy was observed, hyperdivergent vertical discrepancy was consistently evident in all clusters.