Anatomic analysis of the GBAT system’s effectiveness capturing genial tubercle and attachments

Abstract

Objectives: The Genial Bone Advancement Trephine (GBAT) System is a one-step system that advances the genial tubercle for the treatment of retroligual obstruction in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The purpose of this project was to anatomically analyze the effectiveness of the GBAT System to capture the genial tubercle and its muscular attachments in the circular trephine. Methods: Eight cadaveric heads were examined and panorex x-rays were obtained. Seven specimens were selected based on mandibular height and dentition to undergo the procedure. Using the GBAT System with the 14 mm trephine, the procedure was performed following the stepwise instructions. The mandibles were dissected and analysis of the location of the osteotomy with respect to the genial tubercle, genioglossus muscles, geniohyoid muscles, and mandibular dentition was performed. Results: All 7 of the specimens had complete capture of the genial tubercle. The mean percentage of the genioglossus muscle captured in the circular osteotomy was 85% (50%-100%). All specimens had preservation of the posterior genioglossus muscle fibers. The mean percentage of the geniohyoid muscle captured was 78% (15%-100%). No tooth roots were transected or contained in the bone plug. Conclusions: The GBAT System is an effective, one-step system for capturing and advancing the genial tubercle and its muscular attachments in the treatment of obstuctive sleep apnea syndrome.