International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology
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Int. J. Pediatr. Otorhinolaryngol. · Apr 2007
The nasopharyngeal prong airway: an effective post-operative adjunct after adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnoea in children.
Obstructive sleep apnoea is a common childhood disorder. Adenotonsillar enlargement is most commonly implicated, with adenotonsillectomy representing an effective treatment in the majority of cases. Such children may develop respiratory compromise post-operatively, sometimes necessitating admission to the intensive care unit. We describe insertion of a nasopharyngeal "prong" airway and evaluate its benefits after adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnoea and milder forms of sleep-disordered breathing. ⋯ Use of a nasopharyngeal prong significantly improves the post-operative course of selected children who are at high risk of respiratory compromise after adenotonsillectomy. This largely avoids the need for medical intervention and intensive care admission.