Evaluation of Airway Volume and Area in Skeletal Class II Patients Treated with Forsus FRD Using 3D Acoustic Pharyngometry and Its Correlation with Cephalogram Data

Abstract

<i>Aim</i>: To evaluate, pre and post Forsus FRD treatment changes in mean airway volume and area measured in Acoustic Pharyngometer (AP) and to correlate the findings with lateral cephalogram data. <i>Material and Methods</i>: This study was planned on skeletal Class II malocclusion patients diagnosed with mandibular hypoplasia as a cause of Class II malocclusion, requiring fixed functional therapy. Pre-treatment AP records were recorded once the levelling and alignment phase was complete and Forsus FRD appliance was placed. Appliance treatment was continued till the desired objectives i.e optimal overjet and overbite were achieved. Post functional AP records were made at the end of functional therapy, after removal of Forsus FRD. <i>Results</i>: Post functional treatment indicated statistically significant changes on evaluation of upper airway dimensions of the subjects, in mean upper airway volume and area. <i>Conclusion</i>: Study concluded that Forsus FRD is an effective method for correction of skeletal Class II malocclusion among adolescent patients, enhancing significant increase in volume and area of hypopharyngeal and oropharyngeal spaces, thus improving the upper airway patency and as a reliable guide to prevent developing Obstuctive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) in future in these individuals.