[Anatomical changes in upper airway of patients with OSAHS treated with oral appliance].

Obstructive sleep apnea and hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) is characterized by disturbed sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness and heavy snoring. The possible causes are abnormal upper airway structure and factors of nerves and muscles, etc. Oral appliance is known as an effective treatment on mild and moderate OSAHS. This paper reviews anatomical changes of upper airway structure in OSAHS patients treated with oral appliance. Supported by Shanghai Leading Academic Discipline Project(Grant No.Y0203).