Alterazioni morfologiche e funzionali del massiccio facciale e dell'articolazione temporo-mandibolare come conseguenza della Sindrome delle Apnee Ostruttive nel Sonno : risultati preliminari

tromiografic activity of some of the facial muscles (masseter and orbicular in patients affected by OSAS (III and IV class). The results evidenced a significant increment of the electromiografic activity of the examined muscles. The authors assume a possibility of facial muscles' hypertrophy due to hyperstimulation during nocturnal rest which determines an alteration of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Moreover, the muscles cause a microretroposition which leads to a reduction of the Posterior Airway Space (PAS) at the level of the hypopharynx.