Factorial analysis of sagittal cephalometric measurements of the upper airways

Abstract

There are different cephalometric measurements to evaluate the dimensions of the upper airways using a lateral headfilm. It is unknown how many characteristics are possible to study from the available measurements and which are the most useful measurements for this purpose. Objective: To identify factors of measurement of the upper airways and determine their association to craniofacial dimensions. Material and methods: Cross-sectional study. We analyzed lateral headfilms and performed a principal factor analysis for upper airways measurements: N-S-Ba, BaS-PNS, AD1, AD2, PTV to Adenoid (DPTV) and Airway % (A%). Results: We analyzed 151 records, without previous orthodontic treatment or craniofacial syndrome. We identified two principal factors: Factor 1 (F1) includes AD1, AD2, DPTV and A%, and factor 2 (F2) includes Na-S-Ba and Ba-S-PNE. Conclusions: F1 was related to linear dimensions and F2 to structural characteristics.