IMPACT OF ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND RESPIRATORY FUNCTION, WITH EMPHASIS ON OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Orthognathic surgery modifies the skeletal framework of the upper airway and may produce different effects depending on the surgical movement. This integrative review evaluated its impact on respiratory function and quality of life, with emphasis on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). A PubMed/MEDLINE search was conducted on September 7, 2026, including studies published from 2019 to 2026. Of the 67 records identified, 18 composed the final sample. Maxillomandibular advancement consistently reduced the apnea-hypopnea index and improved minimum oxygen saturation, daytime sleepiness, and quality-of-life measures. A recent meta-analysis found a mean reduction of 41.87 events/h in the apnea-hypopnea index and a 6.29-percentage-point increase in minimum oxygen saturation. In Class III patients undergoing mandibular setback, the airway narrowed anatomically, but polysomnographic parameters remained stable in most studies; 5.8% developed postoperative OSA, particularly after large setbacks. Maxillomandibular advancement is therefore effective in selected patients with OSA, whereas setback procedures require individualized airway assessment and respiratory follow-up.