Two-dimensional lateral cephalometric evaluation of varying types of Class II subgroups on posterior airway space in postadolescent girls: a pilot study

Abstract

Aims: The purpose of this study was to compare pharyngeal airway linear measurements of untreated skeletal Class II subjects with low-, neutral- and high-angle facial patterns and a skeletal Class I control group of postadolescent girls.

Methods: We enrolled 50 postadolescent girls in this study. The Class II,1 cohort included subjects presenting ANB angles greater than 4°. Subjects were categorized as belonging to one of three different rotation models: high, neutral and low angles. ANOVA and Duncan's tests were used to identify differences within and among groups (p<0.05).

Results: Pharyngeal airway measurements were significantly smaller (p<0.05) in the high-angle Class II group. In addition, the narrowest linear measurements of the oropharynx (ph-pph) were also smaller in the high-angle Class II group (p=0.055). Soft palate thickness (sp1-sp2) was significantly greater (p<0.05) in the low-angle Class II group.

Conclusion: That smaller airway measurements in only the high-angle Class II subjects were noted confirms an association between pharyngeal airway measurements and a vertical skeletal pattern. However, we could not ascertain that a sagittal jaw relationship had an effect on airway space.