Spatial changes in upper airway induced by change in head postures in horizontal, average and vertical growth pattern: A comparative lateral cephalometric study

Introduction: The aim of the present study was to evaluate and compare the upper airway area on lateral cephalogram between vertical growth pattern and horizontal and average patterns. The airway was measured in three different head positions; the Natural Head Position (NHP), 20 degrees of extension and 20 degrees of flexion. Materials and Methods: 60 subjects were divided into two groups Group A which consisted of horizontally and average growing patients and Group B consisting of vertically growth pattern patients. Using a derived trapezoid the area of the nasopharyngeal airway covered by the trapezoid was calculated in lateral cephalogram. The trapezoid represented the upper airway. Results: At 20 degrees of extension the airway significantly increased more in Group A as compared to Group B. The difference between the two groups however was not statistically significant. Conclusion: In the present study we found that the airway in both groups was affected by 20 degrees flexion and 20 degrees extension of the neck. Hence, improving airway patency by changing head postures is beneficial to all types of craniofacial growth patterns. The results can as well be functional in improving the patency of the airway in individuals with obstructive breathing problems. Airway patency has its application in emergency management, E.N.T., surgery, anesthesia and many more branches other than Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopaedics.