SLEEP-DISORDERED OBSTRUCTIVE BREATHING

Key words: Sleep-disordered breathing, Obstructive sleep apnea, Snoring, Polysomnography, Clinical scoring, Adenotonsillectomy, Adenoidectomy

Sleep-Disordered Breathing (SDB) includes several clinical and functional syndromes which range from primary snoring to Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS). Initially polysomnography (PSG) was considered to be the gold standard for the diagnosis of OSAS. It has been found to be a low sensitivity test for milder functional alterations such as the Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome (UARS). Thereafter, diagnosis based on clinical scoring has become more important. Adenotonsillectomy is the first therapeutical approach of OSAS and in selected cases can be replaced, at least temporarily, by adenoidectomy. In children with genetic syndromes with craniofacial malformations continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) and even craniofacial surgery may be indicated.