CHILDHOOD SLEEP APNEA: THE ROLE OF ADENOTONISCOLECTOMY AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea in childhood represents a significant health problem, associated with cognitive and cardiovascular disorders, and impaired growth. Adenotonsillar hypertrophy is the main structural cause, and adenotonsillectomy remains the first-line treatment, offering significant improvement in most cases. However, recent evidence shows that a portion of children maintain residual symptoms after the procedure, especially in the presence of factors such as obesity and craniofacial abnormalities. In this perspective, complementary therapies are gaining prominence, including orofacial myofunctional therapy, the use of leukotriene antagonists, ventilatory support with CPAP, and orthodontic interventions aimed at airway rehabilitation. This narrative review study, based on publications from 2016 to 2021, analyzed the role of adenotonsillectomy and adjuvant therapies in the treatment of childhood apnea, highlighting advances and limitations in current strategies. In conclusion, the ideal approach should be multidisciplinary and individualized, combining surgical efficacy with functional and pharmacological measures that ensure sustainable results and improve the quality of life for children.