Morphological and functional alterations of the facial muscles due to Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSAS)

In this study, we analized the electromiografic activity of some of the facial muscles (masseter and orbicular in patients affected by OSAS (III and IV class). The results evidenced a significant increment of the electromiografic activity of the examined muscles. The authors assume a possibility of facial muscles' hypertrophy due to hyperstimulation during nocturnal rest which determines an alteration of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ). Moreover, the muscles cause a microretroposition which leads to a reduction of the Posterior Airway Space (PAS) at the level of the hypopharynx.