Characterization of upper airway obstruction using cine MRI in children with residual obstructive sleep apnea after adenotonsillectomy

Objectives/Background: Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy (T&A) leads to resolution of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in most children. However, it persists in about 25-40%. Cinematic magnetic resonance imaging (cine MRI) can aid management of persistent OSA by localizing airway obstruction. We describe our experience in implementing and optimizing a cine MRI protocol using a 3 Tesla MRI scanner and the use of dexmedetomidine for sedation to improve reproducibility, safety and diagnostic accuracy.Patients/Methods: Patients aged 3-18 years who underwent cine MRI for evaluation of persistent OSA after T&A and failed positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy were included.

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