Orthodontic-surgical treatment of mandibular deficiency and obstructive sleep apnea: a case report

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a significant condition that affects quality of life and overall health, with notable prevalence among the adult population. Conventional interventions, such as the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, find limitations due to patient discomfort and low adherence. In this context, orthognathic surgery emerges as an effective solution, especially for cases with dentofacial deformities. This paper presents the clinical case of a patient who looked for the orthodontic-surgical approach for the treatment of mandibular deficiency and OSA. The treatment demonstrated significant improvements in the patient's breathing and quality of life, corroborating the reviewed literature that indicates functional benefits, as well as aesthetic and psychological advantages of orthognathic surgery. The case analysis confirms the correlation between the patient's clinical improvement and the theoretical findings, suggesting that surgical approaches should be considered, particularly in situations where less invasive treatments do not yield satisfactory results.