Lingual Tonsillectomy for Resistant Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children with Down Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

INTRODUCTION

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects many children, particularly those with Down syndrome (DS), with prevalence estimates ranging from 50% to 100%. Although adenotonsillectomy is the traditional first-line treatment, individuals with DS frequently have residual OSA (rOSA) because to their complex airway architecture. Lingual tonsil hypertrophy has been found as a significant risk factor for rOSA; however, the role of lingual tonsillectomy (LT) in this population is uncertain.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA and Cochrane guidelines, registered with PROSPERO (CRD42024552955). We included studies of pediatric patients (≤18 years) with DS and rOSA who underwent LT. Primary outcomes were changes in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), obstructive AHI (OAHI), and oxygen nadir (O₂). Secondary outcomes included postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Three retrospective case series comprising 68 patients met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis demonstrated a mean improvement in oxygen nadir of 4.58% (95% CI: 2.73-6.43, I2 = 0%). AHI and OAHI scores were decreased by -2.97 (95% CI: -8.88 to 2.94, I2 = 24%) and -8.20 (95% CI: -13.46 to -2.94, I2 = 0%) respectively. Complication rates were low but inconsistently reported.

CONCLUSION

Lingual tonsillectomy appears effective in improving OSA severity in children with DS. While promising, outcome improvements may be less pronounced than in the general population, likely due to complex anatomical and physiological factors unique to this group. Standardized outcome measures and prospective studies are needed to better guide management in this high-risk group.