Final answer:
Retrognathia can cause obstructive sleep apnea in young patients with ideal body weight. CPAP is highly effective but surgical intervention may be curative for these patients by permanently altering airway structures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Retrognathia, a condition where the jaw is positioned further back than normal, can be a cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in young patients who have a normal body weight or are close to it. Despite being non-obese, the structural issue of retrognathia can result in an airway blockage. For these patients, a common and highly effective treatment is CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), which utilizes a mask to deliver pressurized air, keeping the airway open during sleep. However, compliance can be an issue due to discomfort or side effects. Another approach to treating OSA in patients with retrognathia is upper airway reconstruction surgery, which can be a curative option. This involves surgical modification of the airway structures, such as the tonsils, soft palate, or jaw, to permanently open the airway.