44 - Cephalometric radiography in evaluating anteroposterior pattern in severe obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

Cephalometry is an exam commonly requested by orthodontists and is considered an auxiliary method in identifying craniofacial anatomical factors involved in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of this study was to assess the maxillomandibular anteroposterior relationship through cephalometric radiography in patients with severe OSA (≥30 events/hour). Medical records of patients diagnosed with severe OSA from the outpatient clinic of the Sleep Dentistry Study Group, in partnership with the Dentistry course at the Federal University of Ceará, were selected. 60 patients met the inclusion criteria, and the angular measurements between the maxilla (SNA) and mandible (SNB) positions relative to the cranial base, as well as the relationship between the maxilla and mandible (ANB), were evaluated on the radiographs. It was observed that 48.3% (n=29) of the patients had a reduced SNA angle, and 68.3% (n=41) had a reduced SNB angle; the ANB showed an angle greater than 2° in 53.3% (n=32) of the patients. It is believed that individuals with mandibular retrognathism are more likely to have a reduced lower airway space, as the mandibular position is directly related to the dimensions of the posteroinferior airway space. It is concluded that patients with severe OSA had the maxilla and mandible in a more retruded position, along with a poor relationship between the maxilla (Class II skeletal). Cephalometric analysis to identify the anteroposterior positioning of the maxillary bases is relevant in patients with OSA.