Photobiomodulation for Pediatric Hypertrophic Tonsils

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA · Jul 12, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new treatment called photobiomodulation (PBM) for children with swollen tonsils and obstructive sleep apnea, a condition where a child has trouble breathing during sleep. Instead of the usual surgery to remove the tonsils, which can have risks and doesn’t always solve the problem, this study looks at using a special type of laser light therapy that may help reduce the size of swollen tonsils and improve breathing during sleep. Researchers hope that PBM will make a positive difference for children experiencing these issues.

To participate in the trial, children should have a specific grading of their tonsils and must have consent from their parents. They should not have any signs of cancer, be on other treatments for swollen tonsils, or already scheduled for surgery. Participants will undergo sleep testing before and after the treatment to see how well it works. Overall, this study aims to find a safer, effective alternative to surgery for managing pediatric obstructive sleep apnea.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Brodsky visually graded tonsils 3/4
• • patient must assent, parent must consent, to all pre and post follow up including sleep testing
• • patient and parent must agree to normal referral protocols regardless of participation within this study or not
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • visual indication of cancerous growth
• • currently under treatment (pharmacologic, other) for hypertrophic tonsils
• • already scheduled for surgical intervention of hypertrophic tonsils