[Mandibular distraction osteogenesis in patients with craniofacial malformation]

Craniofacial malformations (Pierre-Robin sequence, Treacher-Collins syndrome, Nager syndrome, etc.) are frequently associated to severe mandibular hypoplasia, which can cause upper airway obstruction by retroposition of the base of the tongue in the posterior pharyngeal space. Most of the patients respond to postural treatment. In prone decubitus position, it may be necessary to monitor oxygen saturation, insert a nasopharyngeal tube and even an endotracheal one. In more severe cases with prolonged and frequent pauses of apnea, tracheostomy may be necessary, but it is associated with high morbidity and sometimes mortality. In the last two years, in the Multidisciplinary Cleft Lip and Palate Unit of the Hospital Virgen de las Nieves, 4 children with severe obstructive apnea secondary to severe mandibular hypoplasia have been treated with mandibular distraction osteogenesis, this procedure being effective in the resolution of the condition. It has avoided tracheostomy, it has lengthened the jaw in a period of 2-3 weeks. During this time, the obstructive respiratory problems and also swallowing problems have disappeared. The esthetic results were excellent and the complications, for the moment, minimum.