# Evaluation of Craniofacial Growth Patterns and Their Association With Airway Obstruction in an Orthodontic Population at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Odisha, India

## TL;DR

This study found that vertical craniofacial growth patterns are strongly linked to airway obstruction in orthodontic patients in Odisha, India.

## Contribution

The study establishes a novel association between vertical craniofacial growth patterns and increased prevalence of airway obstruction in an orthodontic population.

## Key findings

- 42.2% of the orthodontic sample exhibited airway obstruction, with vertical growth patterns showing a 72.7% prevalence.
- Vertical growth patterns were significantly associated with narrower airways and increased airflow resistance.
- Structural parameters like reduced airway width and elevated mandibular plane angles were linked to airway obstruction.

## Abstract

Introduction

Airway obstruction is increasingly recognized as a concern in orthodontics due to its potential impact on craniofacial development and overall health. Certain craniofacial growth patterns may predispose individuals to airway obstruction, particularly in populations with vertical growth tendencies. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of airway obstruction in an orthodontic population and explore its association with craniofacial growth patterns.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted using lateral cephalometric radiographs of 225 orthodontic patients (90 males, 135 females) aged 18-30 years who sought treatment at Kalinga Institute of Dental Sciences, a tertiary care hospital in Odisha, India. Radiographs were analyzed to measure six angular craniofacial parameters and nine airway dimensions. Statistical analyses, including t-tests and chi-square tests, were used to assess associations between craniofacial growth patterns and airway dimensions, with a significance level of p ≤ 0.05.

Results

In particular, 42.2% of the analyzed sample exhibited airway obstruction. Vertical growth patterns showed a significant association with airway obstruction (p < 0.001), with a prevalence rate of 72.7% among those with vertical growth patterns. Structural parameters such as reduced airway width, increased hyoid-mandibular plane distance, and elevated mandibular plane angles were linked to increased airflow resistance, suggesting that vertical dysplasia predisposes individuals to narrower airways.

Conclusions

Craniofacial growth patterns, especially vertical dysplasia, significantly impact airway dimensions, highlighting the importance of airway-focused evaluations in orthodontic practice. Targeted interventions, such as mandibular advancement and maxillary expansion, may improve airway patency and enhance overall patient outcomes. These findings underscore the value of early identification and preventive approaches in managing airway health within orthodontic populations.