Objectives: This study assessed the use of pulse oximetry testing in children with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea in a hospital setting.
Methods: A retrospective review of patients who underwent pulse oximetry testing between April 2013 and October 2013 was performed. Primary outcome measures included positive pulse oximetry results, defined as a McGill oximetry score of 2-4.
Results: Thirty-seven test results were usable for analysis: from 21 pre- and 16 post-operative tests. Only four patients had positive test results. There was a significant difference between pre- and post-operative quality of life outcome scores in the surgical group (p < 0.0001).
Conclusion: Pre-operative pulse oximetry should be used as a guide to help triage patients who require specialist paediatric services, such as a paediatric intensive care unit. The use of pulse oximetry, particularly in the post-operative setting, is unlikely to change patient management and can incur unnecessary financial costs to UK National Health Service Hospital Trusts.
Keywords: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome; Pediatrics; Pulse Oximetry.