Listen to the podcast here.
A study by Stanley Yung-Chuan Liu, Christian Guilleminault, Leh-Kiong Huon, Audrey Yoon found that Objective Distraction osteogenesis maxillary expansion (DOME) is a reliable method to expand the nasal floor and hard palatal vault in adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). DOME results in a reduction in the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and subjective report of improved nasal breathing.
A narrow maxilla with high arched palate characterizes a phenotype of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) patients that is associated with increased nasal resistance and posterior tongue displacement. Current maxillary expansion techniques for adults are designed to correct dentofacial deformity. We describe distraction osteogenesis maxillary expansion (DOME) tailored to adult patients with OSA with narrow nasal floor and high arched palate without soft tissue redundancy. DOME is performed with placement of maxillary expanders secured by mini-implants along the midpalatal suture. This minimizes the maxillary osteotomies necessary to re-create sutural separation for reliable expansion at the nasal floor and palatal vault. We report the safety and efficacy profile of the first 20 patients at Stanford who underwent DOME.
Airway and Sleep group employs the DOME technique for improving airway and combatting the effects of obstructive sleep apnea. Schedule a consultation to develop a strategic plan for airway improvement by calling (571) 244-7329.