Radiographic Evaluation of Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Radiol Clin North Am. 2018 Jan;56(1):177-185. doi: 10.1016/j.rcl.2017.08.012.

Abstract

Sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive sleep apnea are becoming more prevalent in today's population. Management of these conditions can be difficult and this diagnosis is often overlooked by clinicians. An increased awareness and understanding of craniofacial structures and anatomic relationships can aid the clinician in identifying at-risk patients, and improve treatment outcomes. An airway review of 3-dimensional computed tomography imaging can identify (1) anatomic variations that contribute to obstructive airway complications, and (2) measurable dimensions to identify at risk patients. This article provides instruction on the key anatomic landmarks and imaging protocols for radiographic airway evaluation.

Keywords: Airway; CBCT; Obstructive sleep apnea; Sleep-disordered breathing.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Airway Obstruction / complications
  • Airway Obstruction / diagnostic imaging*
  • Airway Obstruction / pathology*
  • Cone-Beam Computed Tomography / methods
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Nasal Cavity / diagnostic imaging*
  • Nasal Cavity / pathology
  • Pharynx / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pharynx / pathology
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / diagnostic imaging*
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / etiology
  • Sleep Apnea Syndromes / pathology*