Role of Ultrasound in Estimation of Palatine Tonsil Volume in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients

Abstract

Sleep constitutes one-third of our life and a good sleep affects the physical, mental and behavioral aspects of an individual. Disturbance in the normal biological rhythm of an individual can disrupt one’s performance. Sleep disorders are many but the type that could take one’s life is obstructive sleep apnea. Therefore it is important to know the anatomy of involved structures that are responsible for the pathophysiology of the above-mentioned condition. Obstructive sleep apnea-OSA is evolving as a worldwide health epidemic and is confronting an increasing prevalence especially due to the obesity pandemic. Though extensive global prevalence facts and figures are still missing, and worldwide OSA research in standings of activity, value, and socio-economic features has not yet been revealed. Ultrasound of palatine tonsil is an emerging and novel technique, as it is noninvasive and safest modality that can be used to determine severity of OSA. High frequency ultrasound is an impeccable diagnostic tool for assessment of tonsils in children and adults. It is cost effective, portable, noninvasive, painless, quick and easily accessible as compare to CT and MRI imaging