Revision of Estimation Method for an Established Morphometric Model for Prediction of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Pilot Study

Background: The morphometric model (MM) provides a rapid, accurate and reproducible method for predicting whether patients in an ambulatory setting are at risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Introduction: The aim of this study was to estimate mean MM scores in a mixed Indian population and to test a revision of the method for making intraoral measurements. Methods: A total of 60 subjects were included in the study and were divided into two groups of 30 subjects each; Group 1: Patient group; Group 2: Control group. A comparative cross-sectional study design was employed and MM value as suggested by Kushida was estimated by applying their clinical rule. The measurements in our study were made on study models to ensure precise and accurate measurement of these anatomic distances, thus ensuring a greater accuracy for the morphometric model. Results: The comparison of morphometric model values between OSA and non OSA groups showed an extremely statistically significant difference. The average predictive morphometric model value for OSA in this sample of Indian patients is only slightly lesser than that observed by Kushida Conclusions: The results of this study could facilitate the early recognition of OSA and support the available diagnostic setup. This revised methodology may be used to widen the reach of the morphometric model from the sleep physician’s clinic to the Dental operatory.