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Published on: December 6, 2016
Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Emerging Evidence and Treatment Approach
Maria Rita Giuca1, Elisabetta Carli1, Lisa Lardani1
1Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, Dental Clinic, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
Insights
Pediatric obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) requires a multidisciplinary approach for early diagnosis and effective treatment. Pediatric dentists and orthodontists play key roles in managing this condition in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Dentistry
- Sleep Medicine
- Orthodontics
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children involves upper airway obstruction, leading to sleep disturbances and potential health issues.
- Untreated OSA can result in cardiovascular disease, developmental delays, and behavioral problems.
- Current literature presents conflicting evidence regarding OSA assessment and treatment in pediatric populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing pediatric sleep disorders.
- To highlight the crucial role of pediatric dentists in diagnosing and treating childhood OSA.
- To review the effectiveness of current treatment options for pediatric OSA.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on the multidisciplinary management of pediatric OSA.
- Analysis of current evidence regarding diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
- Emphasis on the integration of orthodontic and pediatric dental interventions.
Main Results:
- Scientific evidence supports a multidisciplinary strategy for early OSA diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Orthodontic interventions, including maxillary expansion and mandibular advancement, are effective treatment options.
- Pediatric dentists and orthodontists are integral to the early detection and management of pediatric OSA.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of pediatric OSA necessitates a collaborative, multidisciplinary approach.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning are crucial for positive outcomes.
- The expertise of pediatric dentists and orthodontists is vital in addressing pediatric OSA.
Abstract:
OSA pediatric subjects suffer from episodes of upper airway obstruction that can be partial or complete, with atypical sleep patterns and blood-gas level alteration. If poor treated and/or diagnosed, it can cause cardiovascular disease, learning difficulties, behavioural issues, and retardation of growth. In the literature, there are conflicting evidence about OSA assessment and treatment in pediatric age, so the aim of this paper is to highlight the multidisciplinary approach in the management of sleep disorders, stressing the role of the pediatric dentist in both diagnosing and treating the OSAS in children, according to the current evidence of the treatment options effectiveness of the syndrome itself. Conclusions. Scientific evidence shows that OSAS management requires a multidisciplinary approach in order to make an early diagnosis and a correct treatment plan. The orthodontic treatment approach includes orthopedic maxillary expansion and mandibular advancement using intraoral appliances. Hence, the orthodontist and the pediatric dentist play an important role not only in early diagnosis but also in the treatment of pediatric OSAS.
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