Myofunctional therapy for children with obstructive sleep apnea

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized study investigates the efficacy of myofunctional therapy as an adjunct treatment for pediatric obstructive sleep apnea. Eligible children aged 6–12 with diagnosed OSA will receive structured myofunctional exercises, with outcome measures including sleep parameters and airway function. The trial builds on limited prior evidence from smaller studies and seeks to provide more robust data, including the potential role of remote guidance. The study aims to address gaps such as follow-up duration and the effect on craniofacial structure. It is conducted under the auspices of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and collaborating Hong Kong hospitals.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Children aged 6-12 years, with this age range, children start to have a greater ability to understand and follow instructions, making them more likely to comply and cooperate with the treatment procedures, and at the same time this age range remains a critical and modifiable developmental window when interventions can address underlying orofacial muscle and respiratory muscle dysfunctions and enhance the potential for long-term benefits.
2. Diagnosed with OSA based on clinical evaluation and polysomnography (oAHI ≥ 1/hour). The clinical evaluation will involve assessing the presence of habitual snoring, which is defined as snoring occurring 3 nights or more per week on average as reported by parents or caregivers, and any of the following features suggestive of SDB such as oral breathing, respiratory pauses, observed apnoeas, or increased work of breathing during sleep. Children with persistent OSA, documented by repeat PSG, can be included after receiving standard treatments (such as adenotonsillectomy treatment).
3. Informed consent from a parent or a legal guardian.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Genetic, syndromal, or metabolic disease
* Congenital or acquired neuromuscular disease
* Syndromal craniofacial abnormalities or previous craniofacial surgery
* Severe developmental delay (developmental or functional age \<66% of chronological age)
* Children with OSA who are indicated for and will receive other treatments such as adenotonsillectomy, positive airway pressure therapy or orthodontic treatment.

Where it's running

• Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong
  Shatin, Hong Kong Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Ching Ching, Kate CHAN, MD — Chinese University of Hong Kong
• Study coordinator: Ching Ching, Kate CHAN, MD
• Email: katechan@cuhk.edu.hk
• Phone: (852) 3505 3515

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.