Avaliação das alterações na orofaringe induzidas por aparelho intraoral para tratamentos da apneia do sono

Abstract

To evaluate and quantify, by means of computed tomography cone beam (CBCT), changes in the anatomical configuration of the oropharynx of patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS) after mandibular repositioner appliance installation and assess whether the possible changes in the pharynx influences polysomnographic parameters of patients with OSAS. Methodology: Ten patients were screened with polysomnographic diagnosis of mild OSA/moderate. Measures in the upper airway were taken from CBCT images obtained before installing the oral appliance (OA) (T1) and after reaching 85% of the maximum mandibular advancement (T2). In these two moments polysomnographic exams were also performed. Results: Regarding the airway measures examined significant change only in the most constricted area (p=0.019). As the polysomnographic values between T1 and T2, there was a significant decrease in apnea and hypopnea index (AHI) (p=0.000), and an increase the mean oxyhemoglobin saturation (p=0.005), and oxyhemoglobin saturation minimum (P=0010). Conclusion: The use of intraoral mandibular advancement device of not changed significantly the upper airway of patients in the sample, but influenced favorably in improving polysomnographic parameters.