Airway and Esthetics – State of the Art Chin Surgery for OSA

Abstract

Genioglossus advancement is a sound and well established surgical procedure for the management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It may be used in isolation or combined with other surgical techniques with the goal of opening the posterior airway space. Using virtual surgical planning (VSP), this technique provides a functional benefit by advancing the genioglossus muscle, while also providing an esthetic benefit to ideal chin position. The VSP-assisted technique presented offers confidence in capturing the geniotubercle with preoperative computer-based planning. Fabrication of an occlusal-borne cutting guide provides an increase in surgical precision. This technique allows for ideal treatment of the dentofacial deformity in the OSA population.