17-year Follow-up after Mandibular Distraction Performed in an Infant with Robin Sequence

Robin sequence is a congenital anomaly, first described by Pierre Robin as a triad of micrognathia, upper airway obstruction and glossoptosis. The most significant airway management technique is the use of distraction osteogenesis to advance the mandible. On the other hand, late complications such as permanent dentition loss and malformation of the damaged teeth have been reported. Therefore, long-term follow-up after mandibular distraction is important. In our case report, we describe 17 years of follow-up after mandibular distraction performed in a 4-month-old male infant with Robin sequence. The patient was a male with a cleft palate. The tracheotomy and tongue-lip adhesion was performed 1 month after birth, because the percutaneous oxygen saturation decreased to 70% during feeding and crying. However, postoperative X-ray examination revealed that he could not obtain sufficient airway after the operation. For the purpose of closing the tracheotomy early, we performed bilateral mandibular distraction at the age of 4 months. The bilateral corticotomy was performed on the mandibular body and an internal traction device was placed. The mandible was bilaterally lengthened by 17.5 mm, and expansion of the airway was confirmed by X-ray. A cleft palate operation was performed at the age of 17 months. At the age of 3 years, the tracheostomy orifice closed and speech/language training and orthodontics were begun. Dental panoramic radiographs showed favorable mandibular growth. No additional operation has been performed. Finally, his orthodontic treatment was completed without any complications at age 17.