Three-dimensional evaluation of superior airway space after orthognathic surgery with counterclockwise rotation and advancement of the maxillomandibular complex in Class II patients.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess changes in the superior airway space (SAS) in Class II patients undergoing orthognathic surgery with counterclockwise rotation of the maxillomandibular complex (MMC).

STUDY

DESIGN

A total of 23 patients (15 females and 8 males; mean age, 33 years) with symptoms of respiratory disease (mouth breathing) were studied. The patients were subjected to computed tomography analyses at two time intervals: T1 (preoperatively) and T2 (postoperative minimum of 6 months). The computed tomography images were exported to Dolphin Imaging 11.5 software to measure the surface area, minimum axial area, and volume of the SAS.

RESULTS

The surgery (including a median mandibular advancement of 14 mm with an average rotation of 8 degrees) significantly increased the static SAS, with mean postoperative increases of 178 mm(2) in SA, 76.67 mm(2) in minimum axial area, and 10118.5 mm(3) in volume. A significant increase was also observed in the three-dimensional airspace following orthognathic surgery, which provided a greater permeability of the SAS in Class II patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This confirmed the efficacy of this technique in the treatment of respiratory disorders.