2011-2012 BC Children’s Hospital Foundation Annual Report

Recently, Dr. Chadha completed the first randomized controlled trial to determine if using a nose spray prior to inserting a flexible camera into a child’s nose can reduce the amount of discomfort felt during an endoscopy. His findings showed that a decongestant spray was more effective than using either saline or a local anesthetic. As a result, the way in which nose endoscopies are performed has changed for the better, with children experiencing less pain and discomfort during the procedure. Dr. Chadha’s team is also looking into the use of medication to treat obstructive sleep apnea versus performing surgery, studying the sinus-related quality of life in children with cystic fibrosis, improving voice outcomes for children with different types of voice box surgery, and understanding the role of acid reflux in noisy breathing in newborn babies.

Through these and other innovative and patient-centred research activities, BC’s children and families can be assured they will have access to timely and the best possible surgical care.