Evaluation of Upper Airway and Sleep Quality in Patients With Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate Undergoing Orthognathic Surgery: A Pilot Study

ObjectiveTo evaluate the impact of bimaxillary osteotomy on upper airway metrics and patient-reported sleep quality in patients with cleft lip and palate.DesignRetrospective cohort study involving Class III patients.SettingA specialized craniofacial surgery center within a tertiary care institution.Patients/ParticipantsEight patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate were included, undergoing pre- and postoperative assessments (≥1 year after surgery).InterventionsBimaxillary orthognathic surgery, including mandibular setback and maxillary advancement. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), nasopharyngoscopy, and polysomnography were performed, along with sleep quality questionnaires (Epworth and Berlin scales).Main outcomesUpper airway (UA) volume and minimum cross-sectional area assessed via CBCT; apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) from polysomnography; airflow analysis and sleep quality assessments.ResultsNo significant changes were observed in UA volume or minimum cross-sectional area, including the oropharynx and hypopharynx regions. Similarly, there were no clinical repercussions on sleep, with AHI remaining stable between pre- and postoperative assessments.ConclusionsIn this cohort of 8 patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate, bimaxillary osteotomy did not result in significant changes in upper airway metrics or patient-reported sleep quality.