Changes of the Upper Airway Volume After Orthognathic Surgery - is This a Treatment Option of Severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Background Orthognathic surgery affects the position of the teeth and jaws. The upper airway compartment is in close approximation to these tissues. Consequently, changes of the respiratory volume after surgical treatment in this region is expected.

Orthognathic surgery The correction of severe malocclusions and dentofacial deformities has since the beginning of 20th century been treated with orthodontic and surgical methods. Epidemiologic surveys reveal that about 5 % of the western population has dentofacial disproportions of a magnitude that affect both function and facial aesthetics.

Respiratory disability Obstructive sleep apnea, estimated to occur in between 5% and 10% of the western countries' population. Disabilities in the upper airway may affect the patient's general health and quality of life. Breathing incapability often lead to impaired sleep and consequently decrease the individual's overall capacity and performance. Known predisposing factors are obesity, smoking and age.

Treatment of respiratory disabilities Medical, behavioral and surgical treatment options are prospected methods and the treatment is individually planned in detail. The complex nature of obstructive sleep apnea may require multidisciplinary assessment.

Orthognathic surgery as treatment for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) Correction of anatomical abnormalities may cure obstructive sleep apnea or improve compliance with positive airway pressure treatment. Orthognathic surgery with an anterior movement of the jaws can increase the airway volume and facilitate breathing.