[Maxillomandibular advancement surgery as an optional therapy for patiens with severe obstructive sleep apnoea]

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common chronic disorder which often requires lifelong treatment. Its prevalence in the Netherlands is estimated to be around 300.000 people. In this study 12 patients with severe OSA were treated with maxillomandibular advancement surgery between 2011 and 2012. The mean advancement during surgery was 8.7 mm and the mean postoperative admission was 4 days. All patients underwent polysomnography at 3 months. Three months after surgical treatment, the apnoea-hypopnea index had decreased with 74.9% (57.3 to 14.4). The subjective sleepiness of the patients had also decreased with a mean of 57.5%. The literature indicates comparable results in patients with severe OSAS, specifically a reduction of the apnoea-hypopnea index of 80-90%. Considering the successful results following maxillomandibular advancement surgery, this therapy is an appropriate alternative for patients who cannot cope with 'continuous positive airway pressure' or patients who want a permanent therapeutic solution. Further research is recommended to achieve higher levels ofevidence for maxillomandibular advancement surgery in patients with OSA.