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Recurrent apparent life-threatening event relieved by glossopexy
D A Cozzi1, M Bonanni, F Cozzi
1Pediatric Surgical Unit, Policlinico Umberto I, University of Rome, La Sapienza, Italy.
Journal of Pediatric Surgery
|December 1, 1996
Summary
Infants with apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs) and obstructive apnea may benefit from glossopexy. This procedure improved upper airway stability and reduced the risk of sudden death in a case study.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Neonatology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Infants with repaired esophageal atresia can experience life-threatening events.
- Associated conditions include upper airway instability, gastroesophageal reflux (GER), and tracheomalacia.
Observation:
- An infant presented with apparent life-threatening events (ALTEs) and demonstrated upper airway instability and gastroesophageal reflux (GER).
- Oxygen testing revealed an intrapulmonary shunt due to absorption collapse in hypoventilated lung areas.
Findings:
- Glossopexy significantly improved upper airway stability and normalized oxygen test results.
- The ALTEs resolved following the glossopexy procedure.
Implications:
- These findings suggest a cascade reaction linking upper airway instability, apnea, and intrapulmonary shunting in ALTEs.
- Glossopexy may be a crucial intervention for infants with ALTEs, obstructive apnea, and oxygen shunting to prevent sudden death.