Are three-dimensional airway evaluations obtained through computed and cone-beam computed tomography scans predictable from lateral cephalograms? A systematic review of evidence.

CONCLUSION: No strong correlations were reported between the LC and CT scans. However, the LC-derived adenoid-nasopharyngeal ratio and the linear measurement (posterior nasal spine, PNS, to posterior pharyngeal wall) had a strong correlation with upright nasopharyngeal area and volume in the CBCTs. The area measurement in conventional LC can be also used as an initial screening tool to predict the upright three-dimensional oropharyngeal volumetric data. The variability of the hypopharyngeal segment cannot be predicted by LCs. However, more well-designed studies are needed to determine the clinical utility of using LC to predict airway size. PMID: 27463700 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: The Angle Orthodontist - Category: Dentistry Authors: Tags: Angle Orthod Source Type: research