Long-Term Changes in Behavior After Adenotonsillectomy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome in Children
Objective
To study long-term changes in behavior after adenotonsillectomy for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children.
Design and setting
Prospective study at the University of New Mexico Children’s Hospital, Albuquerque, NM.
Methods
Children with polysomnography-proven OSAS underwent adenotonsillectomy. The Behavior Assessment System for Children (BASC) was completed before surgery, within 6 months and 9 to 18 months after surgery. Scores were compared using a paired t test. A P value ≤0.05 was considered significant.
Results
The study population included 23 children. Preoperative mean BASC T scores were >50. Children showed significant improvement after adenotonsillectomy in aggression, atypicality, depression, hyperactivity, and somatization within 6 months and 9 to 18 months after surgery (P ≤ 0.05). The differences within 6 months and 9 to 18 months after surgery were not statistically significant.
Conclusions
Caregivers report abnormalities in the behavior of children with OSAS. Behavioral abnormalities improve significantly after adenotonsillectomy and are maintained in the long-term.
EBM rating: C-4
aDepartment of Surgery, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM
bDepartment of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM
Reprint requests: Ron B Mitchell, MD, Virginia Commonwealth University, Department of Otolaryngology, PO Box 980146, Richmond, VA 23298
ABSTRACT