Mean values of lateral cephalometric analysis from Korean adults with normal occlusion in relation to the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The lateral cephalometric Korean norms of the skeletal and pharyngeal dimension were analyzed for the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS). MATERIALS & METHODS: The lateral cephalometric radiographies were taken in male (n=53) and female (n=50), who had a normal profile, class I occlusion, normal ANB (0~4degrees) and normal Wits Appraisal (-4~0mm). The X-rays were traced by two oral and maxillofacial surgeons twice. The significant differences between male-female and examiners were tested. RESULTS: The angle of mandibular line to Nasion-Sella line was 31.12degrees/33.79degrees (in male/in female, p=0.0018). The lower Gonion angle was 73.74degrees/73.74degrees (p=0.9978). The length of the soft palate was 36.93mm/34.35mm (p=0.0002). The pharyngeal airway space was 13.42mm/11.55mm at mandibular plane level (PAS(ML)) (p=0.0025). The hyoid was placed inferiorly to mandibular plane 10.18mm/7.72mm (p=0.0051). The results from this study are to be used for the diagnosis of OSAS.