In pediatric obstructive sleep apnea, the primary treatment is?

• A. Adenotonsillectomy
• B. CPAP
• C. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (A)

In children, obstructive sleep apnea is most often caused by enlarged adenoids and tonsils narrowing the airway during sleep. Removing these structures through adenotonsillectomy directly tackles the common cause, usually leading to substantial improvement or complete resolution of the symptoms, including snoring and daytime behavioral issues. This is why it is the preferred initial treatment for pediatric OSA.

Continuous positive airway pressure is a valuable option when surgery isn’t feasible or when symptoms persist after surgery. Other procedures like uvulopalatopharyngoplasty are less commonly used in kids and not considered first-line. Weight loss can help if obesity is contributing, but it’s not typically the primary cure in most pediatric cases.