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Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Coordinate Mapping of Hyolaryngeal Mechanics in Swallowing
Published on: May 6, 2014
[Hyoid bone position and tongue size and patency of upper airway structures]
Aleksandra Janicka1, Ludmiła Halczy-Kowalik
1Katedra i Klinika Chirurgii Szczqkowo-Twarzowej Pomorskiej Akademii Medycznej al. Powstańców Wlkp. 72, 70-111 Szczecin.
Insights
Children with craniofacial changes often experience breathing issues. This study found that the hyoid bone
Area of Science:
- Investigates the intersection of craniofacial morphology and respiratory function in pediatric and adolescent populations.
Context:
- Upper airway patency and adequate ventilation are critical for child development.
- Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is frequently linked to craniofacial abnormalities and upper airway respiratory disorders.
Purpose:
- To determine the relationship between hyoid bone position and the clinical presentation of upper airway respiratory disorders.
Summary:
- A study of 100 patients (ages 9-35) with craniofacial and dental anomalies revealed breathing disorders in 67%.
- Analysis showed significant differences in hyoid bone position and tongue size between patients with and without breathing disorders.
- Increased inferior and posterior displacement of the hyoid bone correlated with the severity of breathing disorders.
Impact:
- Findings suggest hyoid bone positioning is a key indicator for upper airway obstruction severity in children and adolescents.
- Highlights the importance of assessing hyoid bone location in the diagnosis and management of pediatric respiratory disorders.
Introduction:
Maintenance of the patency of upper airway structures and sufficient ventilation are extremely important for children and adolescents because of influence on physical and mental development. Many clinicians analysing characteristics of patients with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome have reported association between craniofacial abnormalities and respiratory disorders in the upper respiratory tract.
Purpose:
The purpose of this study is to examine relationship between position of hyoid bone and clinical symptoms of respiratory disorders in the upper airway.
Material And Methods:
One hundred patients participated in this study (range 9 - 35 years), all of them with evidence of craniofacial changes and abnormal dental patterns. Data were gained by clinical inspection of the naso-, oro- and hypopharynx, plaster cast analysis and cephalometric analysis according to Hasund, suppplemented by non-specific soft tissue and skeletal parameters.
Results:
Breathing disorders in upper airway tract appear in 67 from 100 patients. Respiratory disorders with increasing severity are described: breathing with the mouth open, snoring and sleep apnoea syndrome. Statistical analysis showed differences in hyoid bone position and tongue size between patients with and without breathing disorders.
Conclusion:
Increased displacement of the hyoid bone, correspond to severity of breathing disorders. The hyoid bone in patients with upper airway obstruction is more inferiorly and posteriorly located.
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