Apnea-hypopnea index severity as an independent predictor of post-tonsillectomy respiratory complications in pediatric patients: A retrospective study.

Publication/Presentation Date

12-1-2021

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Despite the presence of clinical practice guidelines for overnight admission of pediatric patients following adenotonsillectomy, variance in practice patterns exists between pediatric otolaryngologists. The purpose of this study is to examine severity of apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) as an independent predictor of postoperative respiratory complications in children undergoing adenotonsillectomy.

METHODS: Retrospective chart review of all children undergoing adenotonsillectomy at a large tertiary referral center between January 2015 and December 2019 who underwent preoperative polysomnography and were admitted for overnight observation. Charts were reviewed for total adverse events and respiratory events occurring during admission.

RESULTS: Overall, respiratory events were seen in 50.6% of patients with AHI ≥10 and in 39.6% of patients with AHI

CONCLUSION: Preoperative AHI of 10 events per hour was not a predictor of postoperative respiratory complications. However, there was a trend for those with a higher AHI requiring additional supportive measures or a prolonged stay. Practitioners should always use their best judgment in deciding whether a child warrants postoperative admission following adenotonsillectomy.

First Page

1455613211059468

Last Page

1455613211059468

ISSN

1942-7522

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

PubMedID

34851765

Department(s)

Department of Surgery

Document Type

Article

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