Investigation of the effects of adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy on craniofacial morphology and physical growth in children with obstructive sleep apnea.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effects of adenoidectomy and tonsillectomy (AT) on craniofacial morphology and physical growth in children with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

STUDY

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

METHODS

Forty-two children diagnosed with OSA by polysomnography (PSG) were divided into surgical (AT, n = 28) and nonsurgical (n = 14) groups. Cephalometric parameters and height/weight standard deviations (SDs) were compared pre- and post-intervention.

RESULTS

Significant changes in mandibular parameters (SNB, Facial Axis, FMA) were observed post-AT (p <0.0005, p <0.0005, p = 0.004, respectively). In univariate logistic regression analyses, age at the time of surgery(cut-off 5.5 years) and A/N ratio(cut-off 0.75) were significantly associated with postoperative improvement in height SD.

CONCLUSION

AT may enhance mandibular growth and be associated with improved height development in children OSA, particularly in younger children. These findings are exploratory and require confirmation in larger, prospective studies.