Coblation-Tonsillotomy vs Electrocautery-Tonsillectomy for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in Children

Coblation-Tonsillotomy Versus Electrocautery-Tonsillectomy for Treatment of Moderate and Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children: A Randomized, Prospective, Single-Blinded Study

Removal of the adenoid and tonsils, known as an adenotonsillectomy (AT) is one of the most frequently performed surgical procedures in North America. The two most prevalent indications for this procedure in children are recurrent bacterial tonsillitis and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a common childhood condition that is characterized by upper airway obstruction, disturbed sleep and disrupted normal respiratory gas exchange. In the majority of children with OSA, overgrowth of the adenoid and tonsils is the primary underlying aetiology, making tissue removal via AT the standard of care. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of two different surgical techniques, electrocautery-tonsillectomy and coblation-tonsillotomy, in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in children.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Moderate or severe OSA on PSG (AHI ≥ 5.0)
• Pronounced tonsillar hyperplasia on physical exam
• No previous tonsil or adenoid surgery
• No history of recurrent tonsillitis
• Participants and their families must be willing to comply with follow-up
• Parents/caregivers fluent in English

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe co-morbidities, including, but not limited to, poorly controlled asthma, chromosomal abnormalities, and developmental delay