Specific postural alignment alterations due to long-face deformity in patients with maxillo-mandibular deformities

Area of Science:

• Orthodontics and Dental Anthropology
• Biomechanics and Postural Analysis
• Craniofacial Development

Background:

• Maxillo-mandibular deformity (MMD) is often associated with pathological postural adaptations, but the direct correlation between facial dimensions and posture remains understudied.
• Previous research suggests a potential link between MMD, long-face syndrome, and altered breathing patterns, necessitating further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between facial dimensions and postural adaptations in patients with maxillo-mandibular deformity (MMD).
• To determine if long-face deformity and oral breathing are associated with specific postural changes in MMD patients.

Main Methods:

• Utilized biplanar X-ray (EOS imaging®) for skeletal analysis and 3D reconstruction in 30 MMD patients and 20 healthy controls.
• Assessed breathing mode, postural alignment (cervical spine angles, sagittal balance), and cephalometric variables (Frankfort-mandibular plane angle).

Main Results:

• MMD patients exhibited significantly increased lower cervical hyperkyphosis, forward head posture, and backward sagittal balance compared to controls.
• These postural deviations were strongly correlated with a higher Frankfort-mandibular plane angle, indicating a longer facial structure.
• Oral breathing in MMD patients was found to be correlated with the Frankfort-mandibular plane angle.

Conclusions:

• Maxillo-mandibular deformity is associated with distinct pathological postural adaptations, including cervical spine and sagittal balance changes.
• These postural alterations are significantly correlated with long-face deformity and oral breathing.
• The findings suggest that altered upper airway function may contribute to the development of these postural changes in MMD.