CBCT analysis of 40 Thai children with non-syndromic unilateral cleft lip and palate compared 20 with versus 20 without OSA. Palatal area, volume, height, and one width measure were smaller in OSA, and volume was the only independently associated variable with AHI in this sample.
Key findings
- The OSA group had significantly lower palatal area, volume, height, and buccal alveolar crest width, while other widths did not differ. Palatal volume alone was independently associated with AHI (β=-0.631, p
Why this matters globally
Cleft teams could combine already-available morphology with symptoms and sleep assessment to prioritize referral for anatomically high-risk children.
Thai researcher contribution
Chiang Mai University orthodontic, pediatric-dental, and otolaryngology researchers generated Thai 3D morphology data linked with AHI for multidisciplinary cleft care.
Limitations to consider
The sample is 40 from one center. Adjustment for age, sex, BMI, tonsils/adenoids, and surgery is not fully described, with overfitting risk. CBCT poorly characterizes soft tissue and uses radiation, and pediatric AHI thresholds require sleep-study context.