Investigation of cardiac function in children with suspected obstructive sleep apnea

Objective: To assess the prevalence of cardiac failure in a group of children with suspected obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and to assess the need for preoperative electrocardiograms (ECGs) and chest radiographs (CXRs) in children with OSA. Design: Case record review of 271 children having (adeno) tonsillectomy for symptoms of OSA. Method: Preoperative ECGs and CXRs were assessed for signs of right atrial or ventricular hypertrophy or failure. Case records were assessed for evidence of cardiac failure during anaesthesia. Results: One child with congenital heart disease had signs of cardiac failure preoperatively. No other cases of atrial or ventricular hypertrophy or failure were found. Conclusions: Cardiac failure appears to be uncommon in children with symptoms of OSA. Preoperative ECG and CXR are essential in only selected cases.