Evaluation of the oropharynx in class I and II skeletal patterns by CBCT

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the dimensions of the oropharynx and its shape in the minimum cross-sectional area, in individuals with Class I and Class II skeletal patterns, using three-dimensional CBCT images.

Methods

Forty-two cone-beam computed tomography images of grown individuals were evaluated. The images were divided according to the patient’s skeletal patterns. The dimensions of the oropharyngeal airway space were determined using the Dolphin Imaging software.

Results

The volume and the minimum cross-sectional area were greater in patients with a Class I skeletal pattern, with a median difference of 5379 mm³ and 86.8 mm², respectively. The anteroposterior and lateral diameters in the minimum cross-sectional area were also higher in Class I individuals (2.3 and 6.0 mm, respectively), but the ratio between them was not different.

Conclusions

The volume and the minimum cross-sectional area of the oropharynx, as well as the anteroposterior and lateral diameters, are lower in individuals with a class II skeletal pattern than in individuals with a class I skeletal pattern. There was no difference in the shape of the oropharynx in healthy individuals with different skeletal patterns.