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Published on: December 6, 2016
Research Needs Assessment for Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Undergoing Diagnostic or Surgical Procedures
Kimmo T Murto1,2, Wesley Chen3, Sherri L Katz4
1From the Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Insights
Concerns about adenotonsillectomy quality and safety in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are rising. Experts identified key controversial issues in pediatric OSA care: postoperative disposition, preoperative screening, and pain management.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Otolaryngology
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Adenotonsillectomy is a common procedure for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
- OSA poses risks for perioperative respiratory complications, including anoxic brain injury and death.
- Concerns exist regarding the quality and safety of adenotonsillectomy in children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and define controversial issues in the care of pediatric patients with OSA undergoing adenotonsillectomy.
- To guide future research and clinical practice improvements.
Main Methods:
- A standardized Delphi consensus technique was employed.
- An interdisciplinary panel of 24 pediatric OSA experts participated.
- Key controversial topics were identified through expert consensus.
Main Results:
- Three primary controversial issues were identified: postoperative disposition, preoperative screening, and pain management.
- These areas represent critical points of contention in current pediatric OSA care.
- The identified issues are suitable for systematic review and research.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights significant areas of controversy in managing pediatric OSA patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy.
- Addressing these issues is crucial for improving patient safety and care quality.
- The findings will inform research priorities for the Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine.
Abstract:
Recent concerns have been raised about the quality and safety of adenotonsillectomy, a common surgery performed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children. OSA is a risk factor for opioid-related perioperative respiratory complications including those associated with anoxic brain injury or death. Our objective was to identify controversial issues related to the care of children with OSA. A standardized Delphi consensus technique involving an interdisciplinary group of 24 pediatric OSA experts identified 3 key issues: "postoperative disposition, preoperative screening, and pain management." These topics are prime candidates for future systematic reviews and will guide Society of Anesthesia and Sleep Medicine-related research endeavors.
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