NIH-funded study reveals surgery in kids with mild sleep-disordered breathing tied to fewer doctor visits

A study supported by the NIH found that adenotonsillectomy significantly reduces medical visits and prescription use in children with mild sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Published in JAMA Paediatrics, the study reported a 32% reduction in healthcare visits and a 48% decrease in prescriptions post-surgery.

SDB affects 6–17% of U.S. children, causing breathing disturbances during sleep. While surgery is standard for moderate-to-severe cases, its benefits for mild SDB were unclear. Researchers analyzed data from a clinical trial of 459 children (ages 3–12) across seven U.S. sleep centers, comparing adenotonsillectomy to watchful waiting.

After one year, children who underwent surgery had 125 fewer healthcare encounters and 253 fewer prescriptions per 100 children, primarily for respiratory and sleep-related issues. The study highlights the potential benefits of early surgical intervention in reducing long-term healthcare utilization. The research was led by the NIH’s National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.

23-03-2025

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