3-D TOTAL AIRWAY VOLUME ALTERATIONS IN SKELETAL CLASS III PATIENTS UNDERGOING NM-LOW Z BIMAXILLARY SURGERY

Abstract

Posterior repositioning of the mandible in skeletal Class III patients is associated with airway compromise. However, the NM-low Z technique has been proposed to minimize airway compromise following the surgery. This study aimed to evaluate volumetric changes in the pharyngeal airway following bimaxillary surgery using the NM-low Z technique in patients with skeletal Class III deformity. A retrospective study was conducted using CBCT images obtained preoperatively and 6 months postoperatively. Airway volume was assessed using Dolphin Imaging software. The results demonstrated that the total airway volume decreased significantly after surgery in all patients. These findings suggest that airway alterations remain a consideration following NM-low Z bimaxillary surgery, highlighting the importance of airway evaluation during surgical planning and postoperative follow-up.

Keywords: NM-low Z, Bimaxillary surgery, Skeletal Class III