Recovering Breathing and Feeding of a Newborn with Pierre Robin Sequence.

Abstract

Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is characterized by the triad micrognathia, glossoptosis, and airway obstruction, commonly associated with cleft palate. This study reports the case of a patient with characteristics consistent with the diagnosis of PRS in the 1st week of life. To stabilize the airway, oro-tracheal intubation was performed without success, followed by tracheostomy and glossopexy and after a small improvement in symptoms, it was decided to perform the mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO). At the age of 6, her maxillofacial development was within expectations, with patent airway, the presence of deciduous teeth, and without neurological impairment. The MDO described in this case allowed patient's respiratory and feeding improvement, thus avoiding episodes of cyanosis, allowing timely removal of the tracheostomy and glossopexy, and execution of palatoplasty at the right time. While it is uncertain whether MDO will replace the possible need for future orthognathic surgery, treatment greatly improved the quality of life of the patient.