Resident Research Review Another research project utilizes 3-D imaging to analyze airway changes with regard to extractions of premolars. This project will determine whether there are any changes in the volume of the airway in adult patients who had extractions during orthodontic treatment versus those who did not. Using initial and final CBCT and Invivo software to measure the airway volumes and minimal cross sectional areas in the upper, middle, and lower airway, we will determine if there are differences between the two groups pre- and posttreatment (Figure 4). This research will shed more light on the effects of premolar extractions on the size of the airway, which could influence treatment planning decisions for our patients. Drs. Linda Phi and Bradley Albertson, in collaboration with Drs. David Hatcher and Shikha Rathi, are continuing to investigate 3-D morphologic characteristics in patients with open bites utilizing CBCT, assessing possible condylar degeneration and other skeletal features. 2-D images of TMJ generated from the CBCT volume were used to assess staging of condylar degeneration (Figure 5). 3-D cephalometric analysis was performed to assess the morphologic characteristics of patients with open bite. Invisalign Treatment Study The clear aligner system has become a popular treatment choice for adult patients; this is largely Figure 4. Airway measurements Figure 5. Phases of condylar degeneration by Dr. David Hatcher 5 52 PCSO Bulletin Summer 2018