Abstract
Objectives:
Investigate the applicability of 3DMIA software to upper airway modeling in children with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).
Methods:
A total of 12 children diagnosed with OSAHS by polysomnography were included in this study. Data regarding upper airway structure were collected via spiral computed tomography (CT) while sleeping and awake, from which a 3-dimensional model of the upper respiratory tract from the nasopharynx to the supraglottic region using 3DMIA software was constructed. The upper airway volume and airway minimum cross-sectional area were measured employing software algorithms.
Results:
The upper airway volume and airway minimum cross-sectional area of the 12 children during sleep were significantly less than while awake (P < .01).
Conclusions:
3DMIA software modeling and software algorithm measurement were more objective than traditional radiology with respect to evaluation of the extent of the upper airway narrowing in OSAHS children, and showed good applicability to studying upper airway morphology and function in children with OSAHS.
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