Age and gender based variations in upper pharyngeal airway space: a retrospective study on the Upper Egypt population

OBJECTIVES: Upper airway assessment is crucial due to its impact on craniofacial growth and airway-related disorders. This retrospective observational cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the upper pharyngeal airway (UPA) space volume and minimum cross-sectional area (MCSA) in a normal sample from Upper Egypt population, analysing age and gender-related variations using cone-beam computed tomography. METHODS: Ninety cone beam computed tomography scans of patients aged 18-60 years were evaluated. The sample was divided into 3 groups (Group I: ≤20 years, Group II: 21-40 years, and Group III: >40 years). Each group was further divided into 2 subgroups according to gender. Nasopharyngeal, oropharyngeal, hypopharyngeal, and total airway volumes, as well as the MCSA, were calculated using Dolphin 3D software. Two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni post hoc test was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: The findings revealed significant gender differences. Males exhibited larger airway dimensions across all age groups except for nasopharyngeal volumes in adults over 20 years. A decline in airway volumes and MCSA in individuals over 40 years. The most constricted airway area predominantly occurred in the oropharynx. A strong positive correlation exists between MCSA and airway volumes. Very good inter- and intra-observer agreement. CONCLUSIONS: Upper pharyngeal airway dimensions in a sample of the Upper Egyptian population are influenced by age and gender, highlighting the need for age and gender specific considerations in the diagnosis and treatment. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE: This study is the first to evaluate age and gender-related variations in UPA volume within the Upper Egypt population. Also, it introduces a discriminant model that provides a probabilistic classification of the site of MCSA with 62.2% accuracy.