Upper Airway Obstruction in the Child with Cerebral Palsy: Indication for Adenotonsillectomy

Children with cerebral palsy have a high prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea given their poor neuromuscular control in addition to airway abnormalities characteristic of the disorder. In addition to the many known health consequences, obstructive sleep apnea in this population is associated with poor quality of life for patients and their families. Adenotonsillectomy, possibly in combination with other surgeries to address upper airway obstruction, may be beneficial for those with moderate-tosevere obstructive sleep apnea and those failing conservative management. Polysomnogram is an important diagnostic tool useful in preoperative planning and in monitoring resolution.