Clinical and cone-beam computed tomography evaluation of the three-dimensional increase in pharyngeal airway space following maxillo-mandibular rotation-advancement for Class II-correction in patients without sleep apnoea (OSA)

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate three-dimensionally the changes that occur in the pharyngeal airway space (PAS) after maxillo-mandibular advancement surgery (MMA) and to investigate whether patients perceive these changes.

Material and methods: A retrospective analysis of 10 patients who underwent MMA surgery for functional and aesthetic complaints was performed, pre and postoperative cone-beam computed tomography scans (CBCT) were obtained for each patient and the changes in the PAS were compared. At follow-up, we asked the patients to complete a questionnaire examining whether they noticed any improvements in their breathing function.

Results: For all 10 cases, we found a statistically significant increase in the PAS. The average percentage of improvement was 34% in the PAS area, 112% in the PAS minimum axial area and 56% in the PAS volume. MMA results in significant postoperative PAS improvement, and each patient reported a positive perception of the PAS increase.

Conclusion: CBCT is a valid technique for upper airway evaluation. MMA orthognathic surgery results in significant three-dimensional improvement in the PAS, leading the patient to notice a subjective improvement in breathing function.

Keywords: Airway remodelling (MeSH); Cone-beam computed tomography (MeSH); Orthognathic surgery (MeSH).