Effect of Mandibular Reposition on Airway Resistance

하악의 위치 변화가 기도저항에 미치는 영향

This study evaluated whether substantial airflow resistance changes occurred by changing jaw position in normal and snoring subjects. A case-control design was utilized to assess group differences. Subjects included 11 snoring patients and 10 non-snoring subjects. Airway resistance was assessed using a whole body plethysmograph. Subjects in this study had their mouth opening standardized to a position of 7 mm of vertical separation and the resistance was measured under the following conditions; normal jaw position and 2/3 maximum protrusive jaw position. The results were as follows : 1. The airway resistance was higher in snoring group than in non-snoring group. 2. Both groups had a significant decrease in their airflow resistance upon jaw protrusion. In conclusion, these data document that airflow resistance can be significantly influenced by jaw positioning. Moving the jaw in a protrusive position produced reduction of resistance.