[Cephalometric indices in patients with sleep apnea syndrome]

The cephalometric indexes of 16 patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) were compared with those of 12 controls in order to determine if fundamental anatomical changes were present in the patients and to identify a pattern of facial features that might be characteristic of individuals with OSAS. Our results point to micrognathia of the upper maxilla in OSAS patients (indicated by significantly lower indexes for convexity, Mx 1, and the angles SNA and ANB). We also found a longer soft palate and a functionally shallower pharynx. Together theses features reduce the permeability of the posterior pharyngeal air space. Additionally, we observed a dolichocephalic facial pattern in OSAS patients, along with a tendency to morbid anterior opening. We analyze the limitations of conventional cephalometry. While recognizing its usefulness in establishing baseline indexes before treatment and in postsurgical assessment, we nevertheless point out that it cannot be relied upon as the only test for evaluating surgical correction in OSAS patients.