Maxillomandibular advancement for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome treatment: Long-term results

Characterization of upper airway and analysis of potential risk factor associated with OSA in patients with unilateral temporomandibular ankylosis and micrognathia deformities

OBJECTIVE

To ascertain the airway characteristics in patients with unilateral temporomandibular joint ankylosis and maxilla-mandibular deformities (UTMAMD) and investigate the potential risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) among UTMAMD patients.

METHODS

Authors conducted a retrospective single-center study to assess and compare study group consisting of a cohort of 32 patients diagnosed with UTMAMD between January 2011 and July 2022 with control group including 54 participants. The study group was further divided into two subgroups based on the presence or absence of OSA in patients. Parameters related to the upper airway were measured and analyzed using three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomographic scans. The measurements of airway parameters were compared between study group and control group and between two subgroups. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify the factors associated with the presence of OSA, and a multiple variable regression model was used to identify risk factors for OSA.

RESULTS

Airway volume (VOL), Minimum cross-section area (min CSA), mean CSA, tilt in sagittal plane (TS), and tilt in sagittal plane (TC) in velopharynx; VOL, airway length (AL), min CSA, mean CSA, TS, TC, and airway deviation (AD) in glossopharynx; min CSA, TS, and AD in hypopharynx were found difference with significance between study group and control group. Lateral dimension/anterior-posterior dimension (LAT/AP) ratio in velopharynx and min CSA, TC, and LAT/AP ratio in glossopharynx were significant different between patients with UTMAMD with OSA and without OSA.

CONCLUSIONS

The upper airway of patients with UTMAMD exhibits significant narrowing and distortion, rendering them susceptible to suffer from OSA. Patients with UTMAMD and OSA demonstrate more elliptical airways, and the glossopharyngeal LAT/AP ratio is a predictive indicator for the occurrence of OSA.

Non-sleep related outcomes of maxillomandibular advancement, a systematic review

Maxillomandibular advancement has been shown to be an effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea; however, the literature focuses mainly on sleep-related parameters such as apnea-hypopnea index, respiratory disturbance index and Epworth sleepiness scale. Other factors that may be important to patients, such as esthetics, patient satisfaction, nasality, swallowing problems and so forth have been reported in the literature but have not been systematically studied. Together with an information specialist, an extensive search in Medline, Embase and Scopus yielded 1592 unique articles. Titles and abstracts were screened by two blinded reviewers. In total, 75 articles were deemed eligible for full-text screening and 38 articles were included for qualitative synthesis. The most common categories of non-sleep related outcomes found were surgical accuracy, facial esthetics, functional outcomes, quality of life, patient satisfaction, and emotional health. All categories were reported using heterogenous methods, such that meta-analysis could not be performed. There was lack of consistent methods to assess these outcomes. This work is the first to systematically review non-sleep related outcomes of maxillomandibular advancement. Despite growing interest in evaluating surgical outcomes through patient subjective experiences, this review points to the need of standardized, validated methods to report these outcomes.

An Overview of Systematic Reviews on the Surgical Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Background

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder marked by partial or total obstruction of the upper airway while a person is asleep leading to breathing difficulty, reduced oxygenation and frequent awakenings. This condition affects the general health significantly compromising quality of life. The objective of this overview  is to thoroughly assess the systematic reviews on current surgical therapies for the management of OSA in terms of patient outcomes.

Methods

A thorough literature search was performed from inception till 31st December 2022 using PubMed, and Cochrane databases. Studies evaluating the effectiveness and safety of different surgical techniques for the management of OSA were considered. The quality of articles was assessed using AMSTAR (A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews) and Glenny et al. checklist.

Results

Out of eighteen studies, only seven studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results showed that the majority of studies were in the pediatric age group except one systematic  review which assessed the adult age group.

Conclusion

None of the published articles had compared all surgical procedures based on the standard evaluating procedure nor followed all reporting guidelines in the primary studies. For better implementation, further multi center studies are warranted with unique reporting criteria and guidelines about pre- as well as post-operative phases. Future research should concentrate on contrasting strategies, combination therapies, and evaluating long-term effects.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12663-023-02051-x.

Maxillomandibular Advancement for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Long-Term Results of Respiratory Function and Reverse Face-Lift

PURPOSE

Scientific literature considers maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) as the most effective surgical treatment for the management of adult obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). Maxillomandibular advancement enlarges the pharyngeal space by expanding the skeletal framework. Moreover, it projects the soft tissue of the cheeks, the mouth, and the nose in the aging face, which is characterized by multiple signs affecting the middle third and the lower third. The potential of orthognathic surgery (double jaw surgical advancement) of expanding the skeletal foundation to increase the facial drape support and to rejuvenate the face by a "reverse face-lift" is now recognized. The aim of this study was to review the surgical outcomes after MMA in terms of respiratory function and assessment of facial esthetics.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the charts of all patients affected by OSAS who underwent maxillomandibular advancement between January 2010 and December 2015 in 2 tertiary hospitals (IRCCS Policlinico San Martino of Genoa and IRCCS Policlinico Ca' Granda of Milan). During the postoperative follow-up examination, all patients underwent polysomnographic examination and esthetic assessment to evaluate the respiratory function and facial rejuvenation after double jaw surgical advancement.

RESULTS

The final study sample included 25 patients (5 females, 20 males). The overall success rate of the surgical treatment (apnea/hypopnea index, AHI <20) was 79%; the overall rate of surgical cure (AHI <5) was 47%. Twenty-three patients (92%) showed a degree of rejuvenation after MMA.

CONCLUSIONS

Maxillomandibular advancement is currently the most effective surgical treatment for the management of OSAS in adult patients who are not responders to medical treatment. "Reverse face-lift" is the consequence of the double jaw surgical advancement.

Maxillomandibular Advancement and Upper Airway Stimulation for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Systematic Review

This systematic review aimed to comparatively evaluate the efficacy and safety of maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) and upper airway stimulation (UAS) in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) treatment. A MEDLINE and Embase database search of articles on MMA and/or UAS for OSA was conducted. Twenty-one MMA studies and nine UAS studies were included. All the MMA studies demonstrated a reduction in apnea hypopnea index (AHI) postoperatively, and success rates ranged from 41.1% to 100%. Ten MMA studies reported pre- and postoperative Epworth sleepiness scale (ESS), and all but one study demonstrated a reduction in ESS. In the UAS studies, all but one demonstrated a reduction in AHI, and success rates ranged from 26.7% to 77.8%. In the eight UAS studies reporting pre- and postoperative ESS, an ESS reduction was demonstrated. No studies reported any deaths related to MMA or UAS. The most common postoperative complications after MMA and UAS were facial paresthesia in the mandibular area and discomfort due to electrical stimulation, respectively. This systematic review suggests that both MMA and UAS are effective and generally safe therapies for OSA. However, due to the limitations of the included studies, there is no evidence yet to directly compare these two procedures in OSA treatment.

Efficiency of maxillomandibular advancement for the treatment of obstructive apnea syndrome: a comprehensive overview of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficiency of maxillomandibular advancement using aggregated individual patient data from multiple studies.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This overview was structured according to the PICO strategy. It adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses checklist and was recorded on the international prospective register of systematic reviews (PROSPERO-CRD42020206135). Searches were conducted in the PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, LILACS, and Cochrane databases for studies published until January 1, 2021. Data from the included studies were collected by one author, while another reviewed the compilation.

RESULTS

Twelve systematic reviews were included. The outcome measures studied were the apnea-hypopnea index, respiratory disturbance index, mean oxygen saturation, lowest oxygen saturation, sleepiness data, posterior air space, sella-nasion point A angle, sella-nasion point B angle, surgical success, and surgical cure in patients who underwent surgery. The AMSTAR scale presented moderate evaluations, with grades varying between 6 and 10 points. The Glenny scale revealed that the study selection did not include all languages. Only three reviews identified quality assessments conducted by at least two reviewers and only five related possible searches for unpublished data.

CONCLUSIONS

Bimaxillary advancement surgery improved respiratory indicators, sleepiness data, and increased upper airway size. However, it is necessary to standardize the surgical criteria to establish measurable efficiency of the procedure.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This overview makes a critical analysis of the results of the selected systematic reviews with the aim of presenting the most clinically relevant data on the maxillomandibular advancement for treating obstructive apnea syndrome, with a focus on improving respiratory, anatomical, and quality of life indices. There are no overviews that approach this theme from a well-structured perspective.

Skeletal and upper airway stability following modified maxillomandibular advancement for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in skeletal class I or II deformity

OBJECTIVES

Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) is an effective short-term treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This study aimed to evaluate the long-term stability of the facial skeleton, upper airway, and its surrounding structures, as well as improvement in OSA following MMA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Thirty-one adults with moderate-to-severe OSA underwent surgery-first modified MMA as primary surgery. Polysomnography and cone-beam computed tomography were obtained pre-surgery, early post-surgery, and at follow-up (i.e., ≥ 2 years post-surgery). Image analysis software assessed the facial skeleton, upper airway, and its surrounding structures.

RESULTS

Early post-surgery, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) had decreased significantly (p < 0.001) and the minimum oxygen saturation (MSAT) increased (p = 0.001), indicating significant improvement in OSA. At follow-up, the AHI and MSAT remained stable. However, the anterior maxilla, soft palate, and tongue moved backward while the hyoid moved downward. There was also a significant decrease in the minimal cross-sectional area of the oropharynx. The reduction in AHI was significantly related to the anterior movement of the anterior maxilla and tongue, inferior movement of the posterior maxilla, and superior movement of the soft palate tip.

CONCLUSIONS

The improvement of OSA after modified MMA remained stable for at least 2 years following treatment, despite the relapse of the facial skeleton, upper airway, and its surrounding structures. The reduction of AHI was not related to changes in the caliber of the upper airway but to the movement of the maxilla, soft palate, and tongue. Clinical relevance Modified MMA is clinically effective for long-term treatment of patients with moderate-to-severe OSA.

Referral of adults with obstructive sleep apnea for surgical consultation: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine systematic review, meta-analysis, and GRADE assessment

INTRODUCTION

This systematic review provides supporting evidence for the accompanying clinical practice guideline on the referral of adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) for surgical consultation.

METHODS

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine commissioned a task force of experts in sleep medicine. A systematic review was conducted to identify studies that compared the use of upper airway sleep apnea surgery or bariatric surgery to no treatment as well as studies that reported on patient-important and physiologic outcomes pre- and postoperatively. Statistical analyses were performed to determine the clinical significance of using surgery to treat obstructive sleep apnea in adults. Finally, the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) process was used to assess the evidence for making recommendations.

RESULTS

The literature search resulted in 274 studies that provided data suitable for statistical analyses. The analyses demonstrated that surgery as a rescue therapy results in a clinically significant reduction in excessive sleepiness, snoring, blood pressure (BP), apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), respiratory disturbance index (RDI), and oxygen desaturation index (ODI); an increase in lowest oxygen saturation (LSAT) and sleep quality; and an improvement in quality of life in adults with OSA who are intolerant or unaccepting of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. The analyses demonstrated that surgery as an adjunctive therapy results in a clinically significant reduction in optimal PAP pressure and improvement in PAP adherence in adults with OSA who are intolerant or unaccepting of PAP due to side effects associated with high pressure requirements. The analyses also demonstrated that surgery as an initial treatment results in a clinically significant reduction in AHI/RDI, sleepiness, snoring, BP, and ODI and an increase in LSAT in adults with OSA and major anatomical obstruction. Analysis of bariatric surgery data showed a clinically significant reduction in BP, AHI/RDI, sleepiness, snoring, optimal PAP level, BMI, and ODI and an increase in LSAT in adults with OSA and obesity. Analyses of very limited evidence suggested that upper airway surgery does not result in a clinically significant increase in risk of serious persistent adverse events and suggested that bariatric surgery may result in a clinically significant risk of iron malabsorption that may be managed with iron supplements. The task force provided a detailed summary of the evidence along with the quality of evidence, the balance of benefits and harms, patient values and preferences, and resource use considerations.

CITATION

Kent D, Stanley J, Aurora RN, et al. Referral of adults with obstructive sleep apnea for surgical consultation: an American Academy of Sleep Medicine systematic review, meta-analysis, and GRADE assessment. J Clin Sleep Med. 2021;17(12):2507-2531.

Effect of maxillary surgical movement on nasal cavity and maxillary sinus dimensions and function after Le Fort I osteotomy

This study was designed to evaluate the effects of different maxillary movements performed in Le Fort I surgery on the anatomy of the nasal cavity and maxillary sinus, occurrence of rhinosinusitis, and nasal airflow. Patients were divided into three groups: group I underwent pure advancement, group II underwent advancement with yaw rotation, and group III underwent advancement with impaction movements. All evaluations were performed using pre- and postoperative computed tomography images and surveys. Twenty-eight patients were enrolled. The mean pre- and postoperative nasal air volumes in group I were 22.74 ± 6.32 cm³ and 25.17 ± 6.19 cm³, respectively, showing a significant increase (P = 0.041). The mean pre- and postoperative maxillary sinus air volumes were 33.94 ± 13.72 cm³ and 26.28 ± 14.12 cm³ in group II and 35.29 ± 9.58 cm³ and 28.65 ± 8.42 cm³ in group III, respectively, showing significant reductions (P = 0.028 and P = 0.007, respectively). For all movements, the occurrence of septum deviation and nasal airflow impairment was not statistically significant. Pure maxillary advancement movement enhanced nasal cavity air volume. The yaw rotation movement significantly increased quantitative clinical rhinosinusitis symptoms. The risk of airflow impairment following Le Fort I surgery is low.

Long-term airway evolution after orthognathic surgery: Systematic Review

Orthognathic surgery is a procedure that consists of correcting the abnormalities of the maxilla, mandible or both. Maxillary movements have a direct effect on the upper airways. For this reason, in the preoperative period, bone movements should be carefully analyzed and planned to avoid causing any damages to the airways. The goal of this study was to discuss the long-term evolution of the airways after orthognathic surgery. In order to do that, a search was performed through the databases PubMed, Virtual Health Library (VHL) and Scopus, using the acronym PICO strategy and a guiding question to conduct the search. Through the keywords and boolean operators "and" and "or" we found 930 articles. After reading the titles, abstracts and application of inclusion and exclusion criteria, we had 21 articles that were studied in their integrity. At the end of the selection, only 8 studies were included in the review. The postoperative evaluations from the selected studies showed that the airways suffered variations, independently of the patient's facial pattern. In addition, the airways tend to return to initial volumes, but none of the included studies obtained a complete return to the initial airways, even 6 years after surgery. Therefore, more studies with controlled methodologies should be conducted in order to have a better understanding of the airways and their changes.

Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome: relationship with obesity and management in obese patients

Obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) is a disease characterised by upper airway obstruction during sleep, quite frequent in the general population, even if underestimated. Snoring, sleep apnoea and diurnal hypersomnia are common in these patients. Central obesity plays a key role: it reduces the size and changes the conformation of the upper airways, besides preventing lung expansion, with consequent reduction of lung volumes. Furthermore, obese people are also resistant to leptin, which physiologically stimulates ventilation; as a result, this causes scarce awakening during apnoea. OSAHS diagnosis is based on the combination of clinical parameters, such as apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI), medical history, physical examination and Mallampati score. The first objective reference method to identify OSAHS is polysomnography followed by sleep endoscopy. Therapy provides in the first instance reduction of body weight, followed by continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which still remains the treatment of choice in most patients, mandibular advancement devices (MAD) and finally otolaryngology or maxillofacial surgery. Among surgical techniques, central is barbed reposition pharyngoplasty (BRP), used in the field of multilevel surgery.

Maxillomandibular advancement versus multilevel surgery for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Multilevel surgery (MLS) and maxillomandibular advancement surgery (MMA) are two established options in surgical management of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which target different levels of airway obstruction. The objective of this review was to comparatively evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of MMA and MLS in the treatment of OSA. MEDLINE and Embase databases were searched for studies on MMA and/or MLS in OSA patients. Twenty MMA studies and 39 MLS studies were identified. OSA patients who underwent MMA showed significant improvements in AHI, LSAT, ODI, and ESS by -46.2/h, 13.5%, -30.3/h, and -8.5, respectively. The pooled rates of surgical success and cure for MMA were 85.0% and 46.3%, respectively. Patients who underwent MLS showed significant improvements in AHI, LSAT, ODI, and ESS by -24.7/h, 8.7%, -19.1/h, and -5.8, respectively. The pooled surgical success and cure rates for MLS were 65.1% and 28.1%, respectively. The rates of major complication of MMA and MLS were 3.2% and 1.1%, respectively, and the rate of minor complication of MMA was higher than that of MLS. We conclude that both MMA and MLS are effective treatment options for OSA. Compared to MLS, MMA may be more effective in improving OSA. However, the complication rate of MMA is higher.

Clinical and Research Solutions to Manage Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Review

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common sleep disorder disease, affects millions of people. Without appropriate treatment, this disease can provoke several health-related risks including stroke and sudden death. A variety of treatments have been introduced to relieve OSA. The main present clinical treatments and undertaken research activities to improve the success rate of OSA were covered in this paper. Additionally, guidelines on choosing a suitable treatment based on scientific evidence and objective comparison were provided. This review paper specifically elaborated the clinically offered managements as well as the research activities to better treat OSA. We analyzed the methodology of each diagnostic and treatment method, the success rate, and the economic burden on the world. This review paper provided an evidence-based comparison of each treatment to guide patients and physicians, but there are some limitations that would affect the comparison result. Future research should consider the consistent follow-up period and a sufficient number of samples. With the development of implantable medical devices, hypoglossal nerve stimulation systems will be designed to be smart and miniature and one of the potential upcoming research topics. The transcutaneous electrical stimulation as a non-invasive potential treatment would be further investigated in a clinical setting. Meanwhile, no treatment can cure OSA due to the complicated etiology. To maximize the treatment success of OSA, a multidisciplinary and integrated management would be considered in the future.

Impact of counterclockwise rotation of the occlusal plane on the mandibular advancement, pharynx morphology, and polysomnography results in maxillomandibular advancement surgery for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea patients

PURPOSE

Evaluate the impact of counterclockwise rotation of the occlusal plane (CCWROP) on pharynx morphology and polysomnography in maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) surgery to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients.

METHODS

Prospective clinical trial of patients with OSA treated by MMA. Computed tomography and polysomnography were performed pre- and postoperatively and the parameters were compared. The surgery classified the patients into two groups: with (R) and without (NR) CCWROP.

RESULTS

The study sample comprised 38 individuals: R (n = 19) and NR (n = 19). An anterior mandible advancement of 0.71 mm was identified for each degree of CCWROP (p < 0.001). As for polysomnography, the apnea-hypopnea index was reduced by 80% and 62% in R and NR, showing final values of 6.8 and 13.0, respectively. The apnea index changed equally in both groups. Reduction of 68 and 26% in the hypopnea index was observed for R and NR, respectively, with no statistically significant difference. Total volume increased by 45% in R and 30% in NR. Retropalatal and retrolingual volumes increased by 49% and 4% in R and 43% and 15% in NR, respectively. The minimum axial area increased by 92% in the retropalatal region and 97% in the retrolingual region in R, whereas these increases were of 76% and 31% in NR, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Anterior mandibular advancement of 0.71 mm for each degree of CCWROP is of great importance for surgical planning. As a result of this resource, individuals in R presented better results than those in NR in all parameters assessed, especially regarding the retrolingual region.

Mandibular propulsion and dental implant rehabilitation for an edentulous patient with class II malocclusion and severe obstructive sleep apnea

Introduction: Orthognathic surgery can be a treatment for occlusal, oro-facial functional disorders and esthetics discrepancies as well as for obstructive sleep apnea. It is often practiced after an orthodontic preparation, but in edentulous patients, the preparation can be replaced with implant supported prosthesis to simulate the final occlusion. Observation: A patient presenting severe obstructive sleep apnea, vertical and sagittal insufficiency of the lower third of the face and poor dental health was treated with a guided mandibular advancement and an almost complete implant supported prosthesis rehabilitation. At first, the implants were placed and immediately loaded, giving the patient a class 2 occlusion. Then, an orthognathic surgery was performed, giving the patient a class 1 occlusion, and then the final prosthesis was made. Commentaries: The interest of this case is the combined treatment of the obstructive sleep apnea, the dental and facial deformities by mandibular retrognathia and the edentulous jaws. The gold standard for obstructive sleep apnea is a maxillary and mandibular advancement. In this case, for esthetic and anatomic reasons, a mandible propulsion alone has been performed, showing a positive and stable result for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. The use of surgical guide permitted to plan the treatment with more accuracy. Conclusion: This case combines a fixed prosthetic rehabilitation, which permitted to guide the orthognathic surgery and the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

Perception of surgical treatments for obstructive sleep apnea among sleep medicine physicians: A cross-sectional study

Background:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder associated with significant morbidities and mortality if untreated. Continuous positive airway pressure is the gold standard treatment for OSA, but poor adherence significantly limits its use. However, there is evidence to support the effectiveness of surgical treatments for OSA.

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the experience of sleep physicians in Saudi Arabia in treating OSA using surgical options.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study featured an electronic survey that was sent to all sleep physicians across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia between January 2018 and March 2018. The questionnaire contained questions on the demographics of the physicians and the types of surgical referral for patients with OSA.

Results:

Twenty-six physicians completed the questionnaire. More than two-thirds of the physicians preferred to refer their patients to otolaryngologists (69.23%), while the remainder preferred to refer their patients to oral and maxillofacial surgeons (23.07%). More than half of the physicians indicated that maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) was the most effective surgical procedure (53.8%), followed by adenotonsillectomy (19.2%), then uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) (11.5%). Four physicians (15.4%) chose “none” as the best answer. More participants indicated that the benefits outweighed the risks for MMA (53.84%) than for UPPP (19.23%).

Conclusion:

Based on the opinions of sleep physicians in Saudi Arabia, MMA is the best surgical option for the treatment of moderate to severe OSA. Otolaryngologists are the preferred surgeons because they are more available than oral and maxillofacial surgeons physicians, who are scarce in Saudi Arabia.

Maxillomandibular Advancement and Upper Airway Stimulation: Extrapharyngeal Surgery for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

There are many ways to categorize surgery for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), one of which is to distinguish between intrapharyngeal and extrapharyngeal procedures. While the general otolaryngologist treating OSA is familiar with intrapharyngeal procedures, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty and tongue base reduction, extrapharyngeal sleep operations such as maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) and upper airway stimulation (UAS) have evolved rapidly in the recent decade and deserve a dedicated review. MMA and UAS have both shown predictable high success rates with low morbidity. Each approach has unique strengths and limitations, and for the most complex of OSA patients, the two in combination complement each other. Extrapharyngeal airway operations are critical for achieving favorable outcomes for sleep surgeons.

Imaging of sleep-disordered breathing in adults

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a term that includes several chronic conditions in which partial or complete cessation of breathing occurs multiple times throughout the night. Central sleep apnoea (CSA) is uncommon and defined by the episodic cessation of airflow without respiratory effort. Lesions involving the respiratory centre in the brainstem or the origin of the phrenic nerve from the mid-cervical cord are the commonest structural causes of CSA; magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) will demonstrate the lesion and frequently suggest the likely aetiology. In contrast, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is defined as upper airway obstruction despite ongoing respiratory effort. Repetitive episodes of narrowing or closure of the upper airway are the predominant cause leading to snoring and OSA, respectively. OSA affects 33-40% of the adult population and is associated with multiple adverse health consequences, including a significantly increased risk of serious morbidity and mortality. The incidence is increasing proportionally to the worldwide rise in obesity. Imaging, performed primarily without the involvement of radiologists, has been integral to understanding the anatomical basis of SDB and especially OSA. This article will review the pathophysiology, imaging findings, and sequelae of these common conditions. The role of imaging both in suggesting the incidental diagnoses of SDB and in the investigation of these conditions when the diagnosis is suspected or has been established are also discussed.

Alternative Approaches to Adenotonsillectomy and Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for the Management of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A Review

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is considered first-line treatment in the management of pediatric patients without a surgically correctible cause of obstruction who have confirmed moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The evidence supports its reduction on patient morbidity and positive influence on neurobehavioral outcome. Unfortunately, in clinical practice, many patients either refuse CPAP or cannot tolerate it. An update on alternative approaches to CPAP for the management of OSA is discussed in this review, supported by the findings of systematic reviews and recent clinical studies. Alternative approaches to CPAP and adenotonsillectomy for the management of OSA include weight management, positional therapy, pharmacotherapy, high-flow nasal cannula, and the use of orthodontic procedures, such as rapid maxillary expansion and mandibular advancement devices. Surgical procedures for the management of OSA include tongue-base reduction surgery, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, lingual tonsillectomy, supraglottoplasty, tracheostomy, and hypoglossal nerve stimulation. It is expected that this review will provide an update on the evidence available regarding alternative treatment approaches to CPAP for clinicians who manage patients with pediatric OSA in daily clinical practice.

Surgical Algorithm for Obstructive Sleep Apnea: An Update

Sleep surgery is part of a continuum of care for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that involves medical, pharmacologic, and behavioral therapy. Upper airway surgery for OSA can significantly improve stability by way of modulating the critical negative closing pressure. This is the same mechanism of action as positive airway pressure or oral appliance therapy. The updated surgical algorithm in this review adds precision in three areas: patient selection, identification of previously unaddressed anatomic phenotypes with associated treatment modality, and improved techniques of previously established procedures. While the original Riley and Powell phase 1 and 2 approach to sleep surgery has focused on individual surgical success rate, this algorithm strives for an overall treatment success with multi-modal and patient-centric treatments.

Clinical, esthetic, and quality of life outcomes after telegnathic surgery in Caucasian OSAS patients

OBJECTIVE

To carry out both an objective and subjective assessment of the facial esthetics, clinical outcome, and quality of life evaluation in 25 OSAS patients treated with telegnathic surgery.

METHODS

Patients were analyzed using AHI, Legan and Burstone and airway cephalometric analysis for the objective study together with youthful and esthetic perception and SF-36 health surveys for the subjective part.

RESULTS

Facial convexity, nasolabial and lower face-throat angle, upper lip protrusion, and vertical height-depth ratio improved the facial and neck esthetics, while the maxillary and mandibular prognathism increased. Eighty-eight percent considered an esthetic change on their facial profile and 52% a more youthful profile. FS-36 survey (pre- 48.86 and post-surgery 71.74) and AHI (pre- 41.32 and post-surgery 7.80) scores improved significantly.

DISCUSSION

Results after telegnathic surgery were both esthetically and clinically satisfactory. The FS-36 survey should be considered for monitoring treatment in OSAS patients.

Why most patients do not exhibit obstructive sleep apnea after mandibular setback surgery?

Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) is effective for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In previous studies, the airway was increased in the anteroposterior and transverse dimensions after MMA. However, the effect of the opposite of mandibular movement (mandibular setback) on the airway is still controversial. Mandibular setback surgery has been suggested to be one of the risk factors in the development of sleep apnea. Previous studies have found that mandibular setback surgery could reduce the total airway volume and posterior airway space significantly in both the one-jaw and two-jaw surgery groups. However, a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the mandibular setback and development of sleep apnea has not been clearly established. Moreover, there are only a few reported cases of postoperative OSA development after mandibular setback surgery.

These findings may be attributed to a fundamental difference in demographic variables such as age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) between patients with mandibular prognathism and patients with OSA. Another possibility is that the site of obstruction or pattern of obstruction may be different between the awake and sleep status in patients with OSA and mandibular prognathism. In a case-controlled study, information including the BMI and other presurgical conditions potentially related to OSA should be considered when evaluating the airway. In conclusion, the preoperative evaluation and management of co-morbid conditions would be essential for the prevention of OSA after mandibular setback surgery despite its low incidence.

Maxillomandibular Advancement for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients With Normal or Class I Malocclusion

BACKGROUND

Maxillomandibular advancement is an effective surgical option for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) that achieves enlargement of the upper airway by physically expanding the facial skeleton. The authors sought to determine whether an advancement of 10 mm predicts surgical success and if any correlation existed between the magnitude of mandibular/maxillary advancement and improvement in polysomnography metrics using aggregated individual patient data from multiple studies.

METHODS

A search of the PubMed database was performed to identify relevant articles that included preoperative and postoperative polysomnography data and measurements of the advancement of both the maxillary and mandibular portions of the face in patients with normal or class I malocclusion. Each patient was stratified into "Success" or "Failure" groups based on criteria defining a "Success" as a 50% preoperative to post-operative decrease in AHI or RDI and a post-operative AHI or RDI <20.

RESULTS

A review of the PubMed database yielded 162 articles. Review of these resulted in 9 manuscripts and a total of 109 patients who met the inclusion criteria. There was no statistically significant difference in the amount of anterior advancement of either the mandible (P = 0.96) or the maxilla (P = 0.23) between the "Success" or "Failure" groups.

CONCLUSIONS

While there is a paucity of individual data available, the current data does not support an ideal amount of maxillary or mandibular advancement that is required to obtain a surgical success in the treatment of OSA. Until a multicenter, prospective, randomized trial is performed, surgical planning should be tailored to patient-specific anatomy to achieve the desired result.

Upper airway stimulation as an alternative to maxillomandibular advancement for obstructive sleep apnoea in a patient with dentofacial deformity: case report with literature review

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is characterized by repeated upper airway collapse leading to oxygen desaturation resulting in cardiovascular and neurocognitive sequelae. Upper airway surgeries such as palatopharyngoplasty, tongue base surgery, and maxillomandibular advancement can improve patient tolerance of continuous positive airway pressure, quality of life, and the severity of OSA. Upper airway stimulation (UAS) of the hypoglossal nerve is a contemporary US Food and Drug Administration-approved treatment modality for OSA with a fundamentally different mechanism. We report the case of a 65-year-old male with a high body mass index, hypertension, diabetes, dentofacial deformity, and severe OSA. He presented with a respiratory distress index (RDI) of 89.1 events per hour, apnoea-hypopnoea index (AHI) of 82.7 events per hour, and minimum oxygen saturation of 75%. He chose to undergo UAS. Initially, complete concentric collapse of the velum was found during drug-induced sedation endoscopy, which was converted by palatopharyngoplasty to meet inclusion criteria for UAS. The patient achieved surgical cure with postoperative RDI and AHI of 2 events per hour with minimum oxygen saturation of 83%, and resolution of daytime somnolence. UAS is an effective surgical option to broaden the surgeon's ability to treat OSA, especially if facial skeletal surgery is contraindicated or declined by the patient with dentofacial deformity.

Adult obstructive sleep apnoea: Pathogenesis, importance, diagnosis and imaging

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a serious worldwide health problem. Moderate-to-severe OSA has been found in up to 50% of men and 25% of women in the middle-aged population. It results in a fourfold increase in all causes of mortality. The prevalence of OSA is underestimated, partly due to absence of symptoms but also lack of knowledge amongst the population at large as well as sectors of the medical profession. Imaging, performed predominantly by clinicians and research scientists, has been integral to evaluating the anatomical basis of OSA. Increased nasal resistance and a narrowed and elongated oropharynx lead to increased collapsibility of the upper airway, predisposing to airway collapse and apnoea during sleep when there is reduction in tone of the pharyngeal dilator muscles. Unfortunately, a significantly narrowed upper airway is usually ignored by radiologists: it is not part of their reporting 'check-list'. The imaging findings in the upper airway that are strongly associated with OSA and its sequelae in various organ systems are discussed. Imaging can strongly suggest OSA; the diagnosis requires a polysomnogram for confirmation. Treatment of moderate-to-severe disease is primarily with positive airway pressure applied by a nasal or oral mask which splints the upper airway. Although highly effective, compliance is limited and other treatment modalities are increasingly being utilized.

[Surgical treatment for obstructive sleep disordered breathing]

The obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a chronic condition characterized by repeated nocturnal pharyngeal collapse leading to poor-quality sleep and an increased risk of cardiovascular episodes. The classic management by continuous positive-pressure ventilation has its limitations and is not always well tolerated. The treatment alternative comprising an orthotic device is effective in 2/3 of cases, despite the dental limitations and risks inherent in long-term usage. Through a review of the literature, this paper describes the different surgical solutions used to correct obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in adults. The proposed corrections aim to maintain pharyngeal permeability during sleep either by reducing soft tissue volume or by enlarging the facial skeleton or, more recently, by acting on the tone of the pharyngeal dilator muscles. Among these different approaches, the highest success rate was reported for the maxillomandibular advancement procedure. This technique demands rigorous patient selection combined with an appropriate orthodontic work-up and management. Patient selection and the respective benefits and drawbacks of the different approaches are discussed. Indications are reported in the framework of current guidelines.

Maxillomandibular Rotational Advancement: Airway, Aesthetics, and Angle's Considerations

Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical syndrome with multifactorial pathophysiology. Surgery can be the primary treatment option when anatomic factors are identified with narrowing at specific or general levels of pharyngeal airway. The surgeries are directed to the etiologic anatomic structure to achieve greatest effectiveness. Body weight, Mallampati scale, and tonsil grade are key evaluations to select effective surgical procedures. Surgical weight reduction, maxillomandibular advancement, and pharyngeal soft tissue surgeries are considered for the patient with obesity, maxillomandibular retrognathism, and tonsillar hypertrophy, respectively. Tailored surgical planning can meet the patients needs for airway, esthetics, and normal Angle's occlusion.

Long-term Results for Maxillomandibular Advancement to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Meta-analysis

Objective

To examine outcomes in the intermediate term (1 to <4 years), long term (4 to <8 years), and very long term (≥8 years) for maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) as treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Data Sources

The Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Embase, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health, and PubMed/MEDLINE.

Review Methods

Three authors systematically reviewed the international literature through July 26, 2018.

Results

A total of 445 studies were screened, and 6 met criteria (120 patients). Thirty-one patients showed a reduction in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) from a mean 48.3 events/h (95% CI, 42.1-54.5) pre-MMA to 8.4 (95% CI 5.6, 11.2) in the intermediate term. Fifty-four patients showed a reduction in AHI from a mean 65.8 events/h (95% CI, 58.8-72.8) pre-MMA to 7.7 (95% CI 5.9, 9.5) in the long term. Thirty-five showed a reduction in AHI from a mean 53.2 events/h (95% CI 45, 61.4) pre-MMA to 23.1 (95% CI 16.3, 29.9) in the very long term. Improvement in sleepiness was maintained at all follow-up periods. Lowest oxygen saturation improvement was maintained in the long term.

Conclusion

The current international literature shows that patients with OSA who were treated with MMA maintained improvements in AHI, sleepiness, and lowest oxygen saturation in the long term; however, the mean AHI increased to moderate OSA in the very long term. Definitive generalizations cannot be made, and additional research providing individual patient data for the intermediate term, long term, and very long term is needed.

From CPAP to tailored therapy for obstructive sleep Apnoea

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that is associated with daytime symptoms and a range of comorbidity and mortality. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is highly efficacious at preventing OSA when in use and has long been the standard treatment for newly diagnosed patients. However, CPAP therapy has well recognised limitations in real world effectiveness due to issues with patient acceptance and suboptimal usage. There is a clear need to enhance OSA treatment strategies and options. Although there are a range of alternative treatments (e.g. weight loss, oral appliances, positional devices, surgery, and emerging therapies such as sedatives and oxygen), generally there are individual differences in efficacy and often OSA will not be completely eliminated. There is increasing recognition that OSA is a heterogeneous disorder in terms of risk factors, clinical presentation, pathophysiology and comorbidity. Better characterisation of OSA heterogeneity will enable tailored approaches to therapy to ensure treatment effectiveness. Tools to elucidate individual anatomical and pathophysiological phenotypes in clinical practice are receiving attention. Additionally, recognising patient preferences, treatment enhancement strategies and broader assessment of treatment effectiveness are part of tailoring therapy at the individual level. This review provides a narrative of current treatment approaches and limitations and the future potential for individual tailoring to enhance treatment effectiveness.

Three-dimensional analysis of changes in airway space after bimaxillary orthognathic surgery with maxillomandibular setback and their association with obstructive sleep apnea

Background

Bimaxillary orthognathic surgery with maxillomandibular setback is often accompanied by changes in airway space. We analyzed the changes in airway space before and after surgery and assessed their association with obstructive sleep apnea.

Methods

This study is based on the cohort of 13 adult patients (9 males, 4 females, average age 23.85 years) who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery with maxillomandibular setback.We performed computed tomography and portable polysomnography before and after the surgery to assess changes in airway space and Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI) values (total, supine, non-supine).

Results

The oropharyngeal airway volume decreased by 29% after the surgery, which was statistically significant (p < .05). The upper airway volume and hypopharyngeal airway volume were decreased, but not significantly (4 and 19%, respectively). The changes in airway surface area were statistically significant at all levels examined (p < .05). Changes in the maximum anteroposterior width of the airway were also significant at all levels (p < .05). However, the changes in maximum lateral width were only statistically significant at C2 level (p < .05). AHI values were increased after the surgery but not significantly at any position.

Conclusions

Although bimaxillary surgery with maxillomandibular setback significantly reduces the airway space, it does not affect AHI values or induce obstructive sleep apnea.

Complications associated with surgical treatment of sleep-disordered breathing among hospitalized U.S. adults

The purpose of this cross-sectional study is to examine the relationship between surgical treatments for sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) and composite measure of surgical complications in a nationally representative sample of hospital discharges among U.S. adults. We performed secondary analyses of 33,679 hospital discharges from the 2002-2012 Nationwide Inpatient Sample that corresponded to U.S. adults (≥18 years) who were free of head-and-neck neoplasms, were diagnosed with SDB and had undergone at least one of seven procedures. Multivariate logistic regression models were constructed to estimate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), controlling for age, sex, race/ethnicity, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and obesity diagnoses. Positive associations were found between composite measure of surgical complications and specific procedures: palatal procedure (aOR = 12.69, 95% CI: 11.91,13.53), nasal surgery (aOR = 6.47, 95% CI: 5.99,6.99), transoral robotic assist (aOR = 5.06, 95% CI: 4.34-5.88), tongue base/hypopharynx (aOR = 4.24, 95% CI: 3.88,4.62), maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) (aOR = 3.24, 95% CI: 2.74,3.84), supraglottoplasty (aOR = 2.75, 95% CI: 1.81,4.19). By contrast, a negative association was found between composite measures of surgical complications and tracheostomy (aOR = 0.033, 95% CI: 0.031,0.035). In conclusion, most procedures for SDB, except tracheostomy, were positively associated with complications, whereby palatal procedures exhibited the strongest and supraglottoplasty exhibited the weakest association.

Subcranial and orthognathic surgery for obstructive sleep apnea in achondroplasia

PURPOSE

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common problem in patients with achondroplasia. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in airway volumes following various degrees of facial skeletal advancement.

METHODS

This was a retrospective evaluation of patients with achondroplasia who underwent facial skeletal advancement for obstructive sleep apnea. Patients were treated with either an isolated Le Fort III distraction (LF3) or Le Fort II distraction with or without subsequent Le Fort I and bilateral sagittal split osteotomies (LF2 ± LF1/BSSO). Demographic, cephalometric, volumetric, and polysomnographic variables were recorded pre- and postoperatively.

RESULTS

Six patients with achondroplasia underwent midface advancement for treatment of OSA (2 LF2 + LF1/BSSO, 2 LF2, 2 LF3). Patients undergoing LF2 + LF1/BSSO had consistent volumetric improvements at the nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal levels (Δ ≥ +347% and ≥+253%, respectively). Patients undergoing LF2 alone had consistent improvement in the nasopharyngeal airway alone (Δ ≥ +214%). Patients undergoing LF3 alone had consistent, but less dramatic, changes in nasopharyngeal volume (Δ ≥ +97.1%). All patients undergoing LF2 distraction (with or without LF1/BSSO) had a ≥50% reduction in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) postoperatively; there was no improvement in AHI with LF3 alone.

CONCLUSION

In patients with achondroplasia-associated OSA there are variable improvements in airway volume. This preliminary report suggests that LF2 distraction, with or without subsequent LF1/BSSO, may provide consistent reductions in AHI relative to LF3 distraction.