TREATMENT OF SLEEP APNOEA WITH CONTINUOUS POSITIVE AIRWAY PRESSURE IN CHILDREN WITH CRANIOFACIAL MALFORMATIONS

Abstract

We conducted sleep studies in a consecutive series of 21 children with craniofacial malformations and suspected obstructive sleep apnoea. Thirteen had sleep apnoea, and one patient with a tracheostomy could not be tested. Twelve children were admitted for initiation of treatment with nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP). Ten patients accepted nCPAP, two did not. Seven children use home treatment successfully. Obstructive sleep apnoea in most children is completely eliminated with nCPAP. The treatment is safe, effective, and leads to a reduction in the number of operations done for children with craniofacial malformations. Aesthetic operations can be delayed until facial growth is complete.