Cephalometric And Dental Measurements as a Diagnostic tool for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Objectives: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a breathing disorder that has been associated to craniofacial and dental phenotype. The aim of this study was to Identify features of craniofacial and dental phenotype that may be associated to high suspicion of OSA in adults through Cephalometrics and dental measurements.
Methods: This project was approved by the ethics committee of the faculty of medicine at Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and Hospital Universitario San Ignacio. Lateral radiographies and dental casts were taken in 126 adults (77 females and 49 males). Sleep Questionnaires (Berlin, Pittsburgh, Epworth and Stop Bang) were applied in each individual to identify the high suspicion of OSA. The following Cephalometric measurements were evaluated: Facial Convexity (Gl-Sn-Pg') Maxillo-Mandibular difference (ANB), effective length maxillary (CoA), mandibular effective length (CoGn), Maxillary length (ANS- PNS), Maxillary AP Position (A-N perpendicular), Mandible AP Position (Pg- N perpendicular), Upper and lower pharyngeal airway and Hyoid Bone Position (H-MP and H-C3). The casts were used to measure Inter-Canine and Inter-Molar Width. Statistical analysis were performed trough Chi Square and Odd Ratio Tests.
Results: High suspicion of OSA was observed in 46.83 % of individuals. Association between Inter-molar Width and OSA showed statistical significant difference (p=0.033; OR=1.48). There was not statistically significant association between any cephalometric measurement and OSA.
Conclusions: These results suggest that Transverse maxillary hypoplasia may be associated with OSA in adults. Further research is needed to determine which craniofacial, and dental phenotypic features contribute to development of OSA.