Management of Paediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: From a Multidisciplinary to an Interdisciplinary Care Model

ABSTRACT The objective of this study is to offer a comprehensive overview of paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), a prevalent condition characterised by intermittent upper airway obstruction that impairs both ventilation and sleep. The design of the study was a literature review using an electronic search. The study extensively reviews the pathophysiology, epidemiology, sequelae and diagnostic approaches of paediatric OSA. It highlights the role of various healthcare professionals in the management of this disorder, with each specialist providing unique contributions to the diagnosis, treatment and ongoing management of OSA. The current state of sleep teams managing OSA is multidisciplinary, including sleep physicians, pulmonologists and otolaryngologists (ENT surgeons), each contributing distinct expertise. This review contrasts a multidisciplinary approach, which relies on separate expert contributions, with an interdisciplinary model that emphasises integrated, collaborative decision‐making for comprehensive, patient‐centred care. This review focuses on the interactions between dental and medical professionals, as other papers will provide more detailed insights into the roles of other specialists, such as myofunctional therapists, nutritionists and others. In conclusion, the evolution from a multidisciplinary to an interdisciplinary care model marks a significant development in clinical practice, enhancing cooperation and shared decision‐making among healthcare professionals, thereby improving the quality of life for paediatric patients with OSA.