Upper airway imaging and endoscopy

Advances in upper airway imaging and endoscopy have provided insight into the pathogenesis of OSA and treatment selection and outcomes. These evaluations have demonstrated the following: upper airway obstruction most commonly occurs in the retropalatal region but often occurs in multiple regions; enlargement of the upper airway soft tissues and/or craniofacial bony abnormalities are important anatomical risk factors; and imaging and endoscopy can play a key role in selection and outcomes for treatments other than positive airway pressure. The growing availability of three-dimensional imaging methods and drug-induced sleep endoscopy increase the opportunity for patients to undergo detailed evaluation for personalized treatment rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.