RESUMO
OBJECTIVE To investigate the applicability of 3DMIA software to upper airway modeling in children with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). METHODS A total of 30 children diagnosed with OSAHS by polysomnography were included in this study. Data regarding upper airway structure were collected via spiral CT while sleeping and awake, from which a three-dimensional model of the upper respiratory tract from the nasopharynx to the supraglottic region using 3DMIA software was constructed. The upper airway volume and airway minimum cross-sectional area were measured employing software algorithms. RESULTS The upper airway volume and airway minimum cross-sectional area of the 30 children during sleep were significantly less than those while awake (P<0.01). CONCLUSION 3DMIA software modeling and software algorithm measurement are more objective than traditional radiology (e.g. Fujioka) with respect to evaluation of the extent of the upper airway narrowing in OSAHS children, and has good applicability to study upper airway morphology and function in children with OSAHS.