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Updated: May 15, 2026

Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE) with Target Controlled Infusion (TCI) and Bispectral Analysis in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Published on: December 6, 2016
Sleep-disordered breathing in children with neurodisabilities
Kristien Vanhaverbeke1,2,3, Merve Selçuk4,3, Refika Ersu5
1Department of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton Hospital, London, UK.
Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is common in children with neurodisabilities, affecting their quality of life. This review highlights the growing recognition and treatment of SDB in these children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is increasingly recognized in children with neurodisabilities.
- Affected children may present with obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, nocturnal hypoxemia, hypoventilation, or combinations.
- The impact of SDB on quality of life in this population is significant.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on SDB in children with neurodisabilities over the past two decades.
- To focus on children with cerebral palsy, inborn errors of metabolism, and other genetic conditions causing neurodisability.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review.
- Focused analysis on specific neurodisability cohorts: cerebral palsy, inborn errors of metabolism, and genetic conditions (e.g., Rett syndrome).
Main Results:
- SDB is prevalent and diverse in children with neurodisabilities.
- Growing evidence supports the investigation and treatment of SDB in this cohort.
- Surgical procedures and respiratory interventions like non-invasive ventilation are increasingly considered.
Conclusions:
- SDB is a critical concern in pediatric neurodisability.
- Paradigm shift towards active management of SDB in these children.
- Further research and tailored interventions are warranted.
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