Objective: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of wing osteotomy for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Materials and methods: We performed mandibular wing osteotomy in subjects who had an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of more than 15, a previous unresponsive conservative treatment for the OSA, moderate to severe retrognathia and no suggested conventional orthognathic surgery because of dentition or lack of willingness. The subjects were evaluated using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), AHI and posterior airway space (PAS) before and 1 year after surgery.
Results: We evaluated 10 subjects (4 males, 6 females) who underwent wing mandibular osteotomy. The mean age of the subjects was 37.8 ± 7.26 years. Analysis of the data demonstrated a significant change in ESS and AHI 1 year after operation. However, PAS was not changed 1 year after surgery. Results did not show any correlation between age, ESS and AHI before and 1 year after surgery.
Conclusion: Mandibular wing osteotomy is a novel procedure that improves signs of OSA. It may be a surgical option in retrognathic patients with OSA who are not candidates for conventional maxillomandibular advancement.
Keywords: Epworth Sleepiness Scale; Mandible; Obstructive sleep apnea; Wing osteotomy.