Three-dimensional changes in upper airways of patients with obstructive sleep apnea following maxillomandibular advancement.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to analyze the morphologic changes of the airway in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients by helical computed tomography (CT) scanning following maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty consecutive OSA patients treated with MMA from 2000 to 2003 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital and diagnosed by polysomnography (PSG) were included in this study. The criteria for this study were MMA surgery, pre- and postoperative helical CT scan, and PSG. Lateral (LAT) and anterioposterior (AP) airway dimensions were measured from the level of the hard palate to the hyoid using helical CT scans.

RESULTS: There was enlargement of LAT and AP diameters for all patients at all levels. LAT dimensions were enhanced greater than AP in the retroglossal region.

CONCLUSION: MMA results in significant increase in both AP and LAT airway dimensions.