ABSTRACT
Objective: To study the difference of airway volume among the adolescent subjects with various vertical skeletal patterns. Methods: CBCT records of 88 adolescents with normal sagittal facial pattern were collected and divided into 3 groups according to their FH-MP angle. The subjects of the 3 groups were matched in age and sex. Airway volume and cross-sectional areas were compared among the 3 groups with Dolphin software. Correlation analyses of the airway dimensions with the maxillofacial variables was carried out. Results: There were statistical differences among the 3 groups in volumes of velopharynx,glossopharynx and oropharynx, minimal cross-section area of oropharynx and cross-section area on EP plane,and all the measurements decreased from low angle to normal angle to high angle groups(P ＜ 0. 05). Cross-section areas of HP plane and SP plane in low angle group were significantly larger than that of the normal angle and high angle groups(P ＜ 0. 05). The oropharyngeal airway dimensions showed negative correlation with FMA,and positive correlation with Co-Po,Ar-Gn (except cross-section area of HP). Conclusion: The pharyngeal airway volumes among different vertical skeletal patterns in adolescents are different.