The Analysis of Modified Algorithm to the Assessment of Upper Airway Morphology: A CBCT Study

Upper airway morphology and respiration pattern have been assigned an important role in the development of the craniofacial region. Several studies advocate cone-beam computed tomography to evaluate the upper airway. Although this method has been widely used, there are no clear algorithms and protocols to comprehensively assess the state of the respiratory tract. The present study aims to describe of a previously developed algorithm for upper airway assessment in children and to identify its significance and effectiveness. Forty CBCTs of pediatric patients with mouth and nasal breathing were used to perform a 3D evaluation of the upper airway using the developed algorithm. The study group included 20 pediatric patients who suffered from symptoms and signs of nasal obstruction, and the control group included 20 patients who were normal nasal breathers. Group differences were statistically evaluated by independent samples t-test at p < 0.05 levels. Mouth breathers demonstrated considerable narrowing of both nasopharynx and oropharynx areas, increased adenoids and tonsils sizes, a higher A/N ratio. The prevalence of 2 and 3 degree of adenoid hypertrophy was significantly more frequent in the mouth breathers’ group (45% and 20%) than nose breathers (25% and 5%). The 3 degree of adenoid hypertrophy was significantly more frequent in the mouth breathers’ group (45%) than nose breathers group (25%) (P=05). In conclusion, a CBCT-based 3D analysis gives a better picture of the anatomical characteristics of the upper airways and therefore can lead to an improvement of the diagnosis. © (2023), (University of Dicle). All Rights Reserved.