Early Treatment of Sleep Apnea on Children

Obstructive sleep apnea is an important public health problem that is well characterized in adults. However, major gaps exist in our knowledge about the pediatric sleep apnea. Current literature demonstrates that pediatric sleep apnea is often not cured by adenotonsillectomy (T&A). Multifactorial interaction is responsible for its development, including oral-facial anatomical abnormalities, muscle tone, mouth breathing, and adenotonsilar hypertrophy. This presentation was based on a multidisciplinary collaboration, and it clearly showed that the contribution from different specialists could lead to effective therapy. Orthodontist may play an important role in early treatment of pediatric sleep apnea.

Learning Objectives:

• Recognize the diagnostic protocol of pediatric sleep apnea. 
•  Make a correct decision for treatment of pediatric sleep apnea.
• Assess the therapeutic efficacy and mechanism correctly.