Three-Dimensional Evaluation Of The Oropharyngeal Airway Changes After Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery Using Cone-Beam Computer Tomography: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess and compare the volumetric, cross sectional surface area, and linear changes of the oropharyngeal airway in patients following bimaxillary orthognathic surgery using 3-D cone beam computer tomography (CBCT) imaging. Material and Methods: A total thirty patients have been included in the study. Fifteen patients underwent maxillary and mandibular advancements (Group A), while the other fifteen patients underwent maxillary advancement and mandibular setback (Group B). Volume changes in airways, surface area, and linear values from specified hard and soft tissue parameters have been reported. Results: Statistical analysis comparing the results of the two groups showed that Group A was statistically significantly higher mean % increase than Group B in volumetric, surface area and linear measurements. Both groups failed to show a statistically significant change in surface area post-operatively. Group B showed no statistically significant change in linear measurements at any levels. Conclusion: Significant changes in the measured parameters was observed in patients performing maxillary and mandibular advancement thus increasing the airway volume; which can provide surgeons with a greater confidence that this combination movement is not altering the airway in a negative way.