Joint ESRS/ERS Webinar: At the crossroads of obstructive sleep apnoea and dentofacial orthopaedics: exploring research avenues and clinical interventions in childhood

Chairs: Prof. Dr Karen Spruyt (Paris, France), Prof. Dr Stijn Verhulst (Antwerpen, Belgium)
Speakers: Prof. Paola Pirelli (Rome, Italy), Prof. Maria Pia Villa (Rome, Italy)

Sleep-disordered breathing and Dento-Facial Orthopaedics, such as Rapid Maxillary Expansion treatment for pediatric OSAS (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea), necessitate histological examinations and clinical investigations, leading to the development of orthopedic therapies and others. This webinar, on the one hand, delves into the intricate relationships between orthodontic interventions and respiratory functions, which are intricately linked with facial development in childhood. The second talk will present an overview of the efficacy of dentofacial and orthodontic treatment on OSAS with a special focus on the morbidity associated with OSAS. Both presentations will also highlight future clinical and research priorities.

Educational aims

• Educate professionals about the underlying mechanisms and pathophysiology linking SDB and Dento-Facial Orthopaedics, including the impact on facial development, airway anatomy, and respiratory function.
• Provide training on various treatment modalities and interventions available in Dento-Facial Orthopaedics for managing SDB, such as Rapid Maxillary Expansion, mandibular advancement devices, and orthodontic techniques aimed at optimizing airway patency and facial growth.

Topics

• Rapid Maxillary Expansion in children with OSA – Paola Pirelli
• Orthodontics and OSA-related morbidity in children: what is the evidence? – Maria Pia Villa

Target audience

• Sleep Medicine Specialists
• Respiratory Therapists
• Dentists and Orthodontists
• Pediatric pulmonologists
• Paediatric sleep technicians and nurses
• Paediatric ENT
• Trainees
• Researchers and Academics
• Healthcare professionals who seek to further understand the relationship between SDB and Dento-Facial Orthopaedics and contribute to advancements in treatment approaches of pediatric sleep-disordered breathing and related conditions.

Format

This webinar will include two lectures of 45 minutes followed by 15 minutes of discussion facilitated by the Chairs.

Learning outcomes

• Understand the principles and mechanisms of Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) and its application in treating Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) in paediatric patients.
• Gain knowledge of the clinical indications, benefits, and potential complications associated with RME treatment in children with OSA, along with the evidence supporting its efficacy and long-term outcomes.
• Understand the effects of orthodontincs on OSA-related severity and complications.
• Identify key research gaps in this area.

CME Credit

An application for accreditation of this webinar has been made to the European Board for Accreditation in Pneumology (EBAP) for 1 CME credit per 1-hour attendance. If accredited, the CME credit will be granted upon attendance of at least 60 minutes during the live webinar only.