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Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy: changing trends
1Department of Otolaryngology, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, New York 10029.
Abstract:
A review of 1,722 tonsil and adenoid procedures performed between 1978 and 1986 is presented. Each year there has been a progressive decrease in the number of procedures performed; the incidence of adenoidectomy has declined particularly. Although infection remains the predominant indication for surgery, there has been a dramatic rise in obstructive sleep apnea as a significant indication, from 0% in 1978 to 19% in 1986. At present, this trend promises to continue as physicians become increasingly aware of the prevalence and seriousness of adenotonsillar hypertrophy as a cause of sleep apnea, particularly in the general pediatric population.
Insights
Tonsil and adenoid procedures decreased from 1978-1986, with a notable decline in adenoidectomies. Obstructive sleep apnea emerged as a major surgical indication, rising significantly.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Tonsil and adenoid procedures are common in pediatric care.
- Historical trends in surgical indications are important for understanding healthcare evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze trends in tonsil and adenoid procedures between 1978 and 1986.
- To identify shifts in the primary indications for these surgeries.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 1,722 tonsil and adenoid procedures.
- Data collected from 1978 to 1986.
Main Results:
- A progressive annual decrease in the total number of procedures was observed.
- Adenoidectomy incidence declined significantly over the study period.
- Obstructive sleep apnea rose as an indication for surgery, from 0% in 1978 to 19% in 1986.
Conclusions:
- Infection remains a primary reason for tonsil and adenoid surgeries.
- Obstructive sleep apnea is an increasingly significant indication, especially in pediatric populations.
- Awareness of adenotonsillar hypertrophy's role in sleep apnea is growing, suggesting continued trend increase.