Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 15, 2026

Author Spotlight: Development of a Novel Finite Element Analysis Model for Improved Orthognathic Surgical Techniques
Published on: October 20, 2023
Three-Dimensional Pharyngeal Airway Changes After Anterior Maxillary Distraction and Conventional Maxillary
Harini Asokan1, Sanjeev Verma1, Vinay Kumar1
1Unit of Orthodontics, Oral Health Sciences Centre, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
Abstract:
ObjectiveTo compare pharyngeal airway changes after anterior maxillary distraction and conventional maxillary distraction in patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP).DesignRetrospective study.SettingTertiary care medical center for cleft care.PatientsA total of 20 patients with UCLP and hypoplastic maxilla were selected.InterventionGroup 1 (n = 10): Anterior Maxillary Distraction, Group 2 (n = 10): Conventional maxillary distraction.Outcome MeasuresThe primary outcomes assessed on pre- and postsurgical cone beam computed tomography were changes in the nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, and total pharyngeal airway area and volume, as well as the minimal axial area. These 2 distraction techniques were compared for their impact on upper airway dimensions.ResultsIn Group 1, the nasopharyngeal area increased significantly by 43.60 mm2, and the oropharyngeal area decreased by 40.80 mm2. There were no significant changes in the volume and area of all the other pharyngeal parameters. In Group 2, the nasopharyngeal area and volume increased by 202.70 mm2 and 5.0 cm3, respectively, the oropharyngeal area and volume increased by 176.20 mm2 and 7.9 cm3, respectively, the total pharyngeal area and volume increased by 380.50 mm2 and 14.0 cm3, respectively, and the minimal axial area increased by 133.50 mm2.ConclusionAnterior maxillary distraction had a negligible impact on the pharyngeal airway compared to conventional distraction. The choice between these 2 interventions should also take into consideration associated comorbidities related to pharyngeal airway and speech.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
Pharynx
Nasopharynx
The nasopharynx, bordered by the conchae of the nasal cavity, serves exclusively as an air conduit. In its superior region, the pharyngeal tonsils or adenoids are located. These tonsils are clusters of lymphoid reticular tissue akin to a lymph node. The precise...
Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract....
Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Equipment Required

