Changes in the upper airway volume after orthognathic surgery: three-dimensional measurements in a supine body position

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to analyse the changes in airway cross-sectional areas and volumes due to surgical movements of the jaws and to identify any possible correlation with the direction of the movements. Fifty-seven participants, aged 18–28 years (mean 20.8 years) at surgery, were followed up for 12 months postoperatively. Pre- and postoperative measurements of the facial region obtained from computed tomography in a supine position were analysed according to the surgical movements and changes in the upper airways. Intra-rater reliability was assessed. Comparisons and correlations of jaw movements, changes in airway volume, and body mass index (BMI) were made. The cohort showed a significant change between the pre- and postoperative measurements for areas associated with the anterior nasal spine (P = 0.013), posterior nasal spine (P = 0.049), uvula (P = 0.006), and epiglottis (P = 0.046). Additionally, a correlation was found between the airway volume change and the change in mandible position (correlation coefficient 0.324, P = 0.014). All participants were non-smokers, and no correlation was observed between BMI and the upper airway volume. Changes in the upper airway can be expected following surgical movements of the jaws. A correlation was shown between a sagittal direction of the movements and the changes in the airways. Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea who are indicated for surgical movements of the jaws are expected to benefit from orthognathic surgery.