Three-dimensional evaluation of anterior parameters and palatal height index in obstructive sleep apnea adults using cone beam computed tomography: A Case control study

PURPOSE: The aim of the study was to compare the anterior parameters and the palatal height index (PHI) in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients and control subjects, using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: The CBCT data of 30 male OSA patient diagnosed with polysomnography and 30 male control subjects with no sleeping disorders were analyzed using the software 3D Slicer. The head position during the scan was similar in both groups. The anterior parameters (overjet and overbite) and the PHI were calculated. Independent samples T-test was used to identify statistically significant differences between the means of two independent groups. Chi-square test was used to assess relationship between categorical variables. A P value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The mean value of PHI was lower in the OSA group ( P = 0.010). No statistically significant difference between the means of overbite and overjet was found between the two groups. CONCLUSION: The anterior parameters did not show significant differences between the groups. However, the OSA group have a significantly lower mean PHI than the control group.