Static properties of the passive pharynx in sleep apnea.

Complete paralysis under general anesthesia allowed separating anatomic factors from neural factors which influence pharyngeal patency. We compared static mechanical properties of the passive pharynx in normals and sleep apneics. The passive pharynx was narrower and more collapsible in sleep apneics than normal controls indicating significance of anatomic factors in the pathogenesis of obstructive sleep apnea.