Tomographic relationship of facial biotype with hyoid bone: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Foundations: The interaction of the cranio-cervical posture with the position of the hyoid bone causes movements between the head, spine, and jaw; these, if not adequate, could cause modifications in the dimension of the pharyngeal airway, dentofacial morphology, among others, including the TMJ (Temporomandibular Joint). Objective: The purpose of this study was determinate the tomographic relationship of facial biotype with hyoid bone. Methods: The present study had a quantitative, descriptive-relational approach of transversal temporality; whose sample was made up of 150 head and neck tomography in individuals aged 13 to 75 years that met the selection criteria established by the researchers and that were taken during the year 2021; subsequently, the tomography was analyzed through the use of 3D Slicer software that allowed the measurement of the hyoid triangle (H'- Rgn- C3), Frankfort plane, subsequently the facial biotype was analyzed by anterior facial height and facial height, as well as to obtain the cephalometric analysis of Jarabak. Results: In the correlation analysis between the position of the hyoid bone with the biofacial in general, a correlation coefficient of 0.030531854 was found with an R2 of 0.0009 where a very low positive statistical correlation could be established   with positive linear adjustment of the evaluated variables. Conclusions: The correlation present between the facial biotype and the hyoid bone is very low positive with an evident positive linear adjustment of the variables evaluated; that is, it is possible to mention and predict that the position of the hyoid bone will be altered according to the facial biotype.