Velopharyngeal insufficiency in adenotonsillar surgery

Introduction: Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is a possible complication associated with adenotonsillar surgery, whose real incidence is difficult to establish, according to the literature, the estimated frequency is 1 in 1500-10000 adenoidectomies. However, there is no record in the literature of transient postoperative VPI. Hypothesis: The postoperative VPI, both transient and permanent, is underdiagnosed and underreported. Aim: To evaluate the frequency and predisposing factors study transient and permanent postoperative VPI in a population of the West Area of the Metropolitan Region of Chile, 2004-2007. Material and method: A retrospective study, clinical records and records from the Audiology Unit of patients <15 years, operated as adenotonsillar pathology in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Hospital San Juan de Dios, from 2004 to 2007. Results: There were 18 cases of transient postoperative VPI which corresponds to 1.2% (n =1458). The frequency of permanent postoperative VPI was zero. Conclusion: It was not possible to analyze the possible predisposing factors for postoperative VPI. The percentage of transient found VPI is a statistical reference for the development of informed consent. It is possible that the frequency found to be lower than actual due to inadequate recording and postoperative control. We believe that we need a study protocol and postoperative monitoring in all VPI patients undergoing adenotonsillar surgery.