Cephalometric Assessment of Upper Airway Effects on Craniofacial Morphology Publisher Pubmed



Ardehali MM¹ ; Zarch VV¹ ; Joibari ME¹ ; Kouhi A¹
Source: Journal of Craniofacial Surgery Published:2016

Abstract

To investigate craniofacial growth deformities in children with upper airway obstruction, this controlled study was performed. Cephalometry is used as a screening test for anatomic abnormalities in patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. Therefore, the current work selected this method to investigate the effect of upper airway obstruction on craniofacial morphology. Patients with upper airway obstruction (104) were compared with 71 controls. Patients with upper airway compromise had mandibular hypoplasia, mandibular retrognathism, and higher hard palates in comparison with controls with no history of airway obstruction. The difference was higher in the older age group. Airway obstruction has significant correlation craniofacial morphology. Our findings support the idea of early assessment and thorough management of mouth breathing in children. © 2016 Mutaz B. Habal, MD.