THE ROLE OF DYNAMIC MRI SLEEP STUDIES IN GUIDING THE MANAGEMENT OF OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA: AN OBSERVATIONAL ANALYSIS.

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) prevalence is increasing due to sedentary lifestyles. Dynamic MRI sleep studies offer detailed anatomical evaluation, identifying the level and pattern of airway obstruction, which can optimize surgical planning. This study investigates the efficacy of dynamic MRI in guiding OSA management.Methods: This retrospective observational study analyzed dynamic MRI findings in 66 patients previously diagnosed with OSA via polysomnography. The levels and patterns of airway collapse were correlated with apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) severity, and the impact on treatment planning was assessed.Results: Dynamic MRI revealed significant retropalatal collapse in 62 patients and lateral pharyngeal wall collapse in 53 patients. Retroglossal collapse, often concurrent with retropalatal collapse, was observed in 6 patients. Multilevel collapse (retropalatal, retroglossal, and hypopharyngeal) was present in 3 patients. Based on MRI findings, 48 patients were recommended for surgical intervention. Of the 30 patients who underwent surgery, promising clinical improvement was noted at 6-month follow-up.Conclusion: Lateral pharyngeal wall collapse was frequently associated with AHI severity. Dynamic MRI provides valuable anatomical information for surgical planning in OSA patients, demonstrating its potential to improve treatment outcomes. Therefore, dynamic MRI is a useful tool in the preoperative assessment of OSA patients.