evaluation of hyoid bone position and its correlation with pharyngeal airway space in different types of skeletal malocclusion

Abstract

Introduction: The hyoid bone and its relation with the pharyngeal space in health and disease has been an intriguing subject for years. Aim: This study attempts to evaluate the hyoid bone position and to ascertain any correlations with pharyngeal airway space in skeletal class I, II, and III malocclusions. Materials and Methods: McNamara′s airway analysis was carried out to assess the upper and lower airway widths and Hyoid triangle analysis by Bibby and Preston was carried out to determine the position of the hyoid bone. Conclusion: A positive correlation was found between the lower airway and horizontal distance from the hyoid bone to the retrognathion in class I skeletal pattern with average growth pattern.