[Computer-aided mandibular repositioning system for efficacy prediction of oral appliance in patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome].

Objective: To develop a computer-aided mandibular repositioning system (CAMRS) and investigate its preliminary application in efficacy prediction of oral appliance in patients with obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS).
Methods: CAMRS was mainly consisting of a step motor and a screw that was remote-controlled by a computer. This system could work with polysomnography (PSG). Fourteen OSAHS patients diagnosed by PSG were recruited. With CAMRS, six mandibular positions were titrated with PSG for every hour.
Results: Stable mandible positioning and little sleeping disturbance were observed. Apnea hypopnea index (AHI) was improved progressively with mandibular advancement. The extent of mandibular advancement was correlated with the severity of OSAHS (r = 0.72747).
Conclusions: CAMRS could reproductively and effectively reposition mandible with little sleeping disturbance. Through CAMRS, an individualized optimal mandibular position could be obtained for each OSAHS patient treated with oral appliance.