Changes in Polysomnography and Rhinomanometry Parameters After Rapid Maxillary Expansion or Adenotonsilectomy in Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Adenotonsillectomy (AT) is considered the most effective and the standard treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in children. Since maxillary hypoplasia is a risk factor for OSA, Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) has been be considered as a complementary treatment in selected cases,improving the OSA. To compare changes in polysomnography (PSG) and in anterior active rhinomanometry (AAR) in children diagnosed with OSA, treated with RME or AT. Methods: A sample of 51 children aged 5 to 10 years, diagnosed with OSA through PSG and referred for AT, was selected in a hospital based mouth-breathing specialized center. Children were divided in 2 groups: the AT group with 25 individuals, without maxillary hypoplasia, and the RME group composed of 26 children with maxillary constriction and posterior crossbite, with indication for RME before the AT surgery. Children underwent an initial evaluation at the time of selection (T0) and six months after the intervention: AT or RME (T1).