Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 20, 2026
09:16
Analyzing Craniofacial Morphogenesis in Zebrafish Using 4D Confocal Microscopy
Published on: January 30, 2014
Pharyngeal airway changes associated with mandibular advancement
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University of California, San Francisco 94143-0440.
Summary
Mandibular advancement surgery for obstructive sleep apnea showed unpredictable oropharyngeal changes. Long-term results were unstable, suggesting limited reliability for this sleep apnea treatment.
Area of Science:
- Orthodontics
- Sleep Medicine
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder.
- Mandibular advancement is a surgical option for OSA.
- Oropharyngeal dimension changes after surgery are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze anteroposterior oropharyngeal dimension changes after mandibular advancement.
- To assess the long-term stability of these changes.
- To determine predictors of stable outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Lateral cephalometric radiographs were used.
- 26 patients undergoing mandibular advancement were analyzed.
- Oropharyngeal sagittal dimensions were measured pre- and post-surgery.
Main Results:
- Oropharyngeal dimension increases were unpredictable.
- Observed increases tended to decrease over time.
- Preoperative oropharyngeal narrowing correlated with stable results.
Conclusions:
- Mandibular advancement may be unreliable for OSA treatment due to unpredictable and unstable oropharyngeal changes.
- Preoperative oropharyngeal dimensions are crucial for predicting surgical success.
- Further research is needed to optimize surgical outcomes for OSA.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Pharynx
The pharynx, a tubular structure framed by skeletal muscle and lined with mucous membrane, extends continuously from the nasal cavities. It is segmented into three major areas: the nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx.
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...
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...
01:29Anatomy of Respiratory System I: Upper Respiratory Tract
The upper respiratory tract plays a vital role in the respiratory system, comprising several structures that facilitate air intake and prepare air for the lungs. It also serves as the first line of defense against pathogens and particles. This tract includes the nose and nasal cavity, the oral cavity, the paranasal sinuses, and the pharynx, each with specific functions and features.
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract.
Nose and nasal cavity
The nose and nasal cavity represent the main external openings of the respiratory tract.
01:29Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway
Nasopharyngeal suctioning is a procedure to remove secretions from the upper part of the respiratory tract that the patient cannot clear independently. It helps maintain airway patency and prevents complications such as aspiration pneumonia.
Equipment Required
Equipment Required
01:25Suctioning the Oropharyngeal Airway
In preparing for oropharyngeal airway suctioning, a nurse must gather all necessary equipment, including a suction unit with tubing, a prepackaged suction kit, sterile gloves, water or saline for irrigation, a water-soluble lubricant, and additional personal protective equipment (such as a gown, mask, and goggles) to control infections.
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
After assembling the equipment, the nurse should practice hand hygiene and don appropriate PPE according to infection control guidelines to avoid the...
01:22Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...
01:30Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Airway management is essential in emergency and surgical medicine, ensuring ventilation and oxygenation in patients who cannot maintain their own airway. Clinicians use a range of techniques and devices to secure the airway, depending on the patient’s condition and the clinical context. Key methods include endotracheal intubation, rapid sequence intubation (RSI), supraglottic airway devices, and advanced visualization aids. In cases where these approaches fail, surgical airway interventions are...