Retrospective analysis of the effects of orthognathic surgery on the pharyngeal airway space.

PURPOSE Dentofacial deformities can be defined as defects in the growth and development of facial bones, mainly the maxilla and mandible. Such deformities can change the dimension and function of the pharyngeal airway space and orthognathic surgery is the treatment of choice. The aim of this study was to evaluate changes in the pharyngeal airway space after orthognathic surgery and test the ability of cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging to allow analysis of the airway. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pre- and postoperative measurements were taken using CBCT images of 100 patients who underwent orthognathic surgery. RESULTS The results showed an increase of the airway at the middle portion in the anteroposterior and lateral directions in the maxillary advancement, mandibular advancement, and maxillomandibular advancement groups. The results also showed an increase of total area in the maxillary advancement, mandibular advancement, maxillomandibular advancement, and maxillary advancement and mandibular setback groups. Total sagittal area increased in accord with bone movement. CONCLUSIONS CBCT imaging allows the analysis of the effects of orthognathic surgery on the pharyngeal airway. Changes to the airway follow the maxillomandibular advancement that is carried out and the maxillary and mandibular advancements increase the upper and middle airway in the anteroposterior and lateral directions.