Functional outcomes of mandibular distraction for the relief of severe airway obstruction and feeding difficulties in neonates with Pierre Robin sequence.

The purpose of this study was to review the application of mandibular distraction to relieve severe airway obstruction or feeding problems of neonates. Thirteen neonates with Pierre Robin sequence who underwent bilateral mandibular distraction between 2010 and 2013 for relief of their severe airway obstruction or feeding problems were retrospectively reviewed. The mean preoperative and postoperative airway diameters were 3.89±1.64 and 9.03±1.98 mm. respectively and significant difference was observed with distraction (p < 0.001). The rate of severe airway infection also significantly decreased from 69.2% to 23.1% (p=0.016). 84.6% of the patients were able to be fed orally at discharge whereas 6 patients (46.2%) required support via orogastric tube before distraction (p=0.125). No growth disturbance, dental complications or malocclusion was observed in the long-term follow up. Mandibular distraction appears to be a promising and effective surgical option for relieving airway obstruction and feeding problems in severe Pierre Robin Sequence patients.