Pharyngeal airway obstruction in obstructive sleep apnea: pathophysiology and clinical implications.

In obstructive sleep apnea, airflow obstruction is caused by pharyngeal collapse. Current evidence suggests that anatomic alterations predispose to pharyngeal collapse. This article examines the role of structures that elongate and dilate the pharynx in maintaining pharyngeal patency. Their influence on pharyngeal collapsibility is considered. Insights gained are then presented within a conceptual framework that can be used for treating patients.