Análisis de la relación entre la permeabilidad de las vías aéreas y la Clase esqueletal en radiografías cefálicas laterales de pacientes atendidos en el Centro Radiológico Inside, Cuenca, Ecuador, durante el periodo febrero 2023 – febrero 2025.

Abstract

Introduction: Alterations in airway patency can directly affect the development of patients' skeletal structures, triggering the development of malocclusions and dental malposition. Due to its significant functional and aesthetic impact, this condition greatly affects patients' quality life. Therefore, a correct and timely evaluation is essential for all patients. Objective: To evaluate airway patency in lateral cephalometric radiographs of patients treated at the Inside Radiological Center, Cuenca, Ecuador, during the period February 2023 – February 2025. Methodology: For this research, 105 lateral cephalometric radiographs obtained from the Inside radiological center were evaluated. These were categorized based on the skeletal Class (I, II, and III) determined by Steiner's ANB angle. Airway patency was measured using McNamara's Analysis, obtaining measurements of the nasopharynx (Nfa-Nfp) and oropharynx (Bfa-Bfp). Mean comparison was performed using ANOVA with Bonferroni correction. Results: A statistically significant difference was found in the dimension of the oropharynx (Bfa-Bfp), specifically between the Class II and Class I groups (p = 0.003). No statistically significant differences were found in the nasopharynx (Nfa-Nfp). Conclusions: Individuals with skeletal Class II are associated with a significant reduction in the oropharyngeal airway dimension compared to other skeletal Classes. This emphasizes the importance of comprehensive airway evaluation in diagnosis and treatment planning.