Patterns of Change in the Severity of Airway Obstruction with Robin Sequence in Early Infancy

Previous studies suggest that infants with Robin sequence show a pattern of steady improvement in the severity of airway obstruction, and of their treatment requirements, during infancy.

Three infants with Robin sequence and severe obstructive sleep apnea were managed with nasal continuous positive airways pressure (CPAP). Multiple measures of airway obstruction were made during infancy, including CPAP pressure evaluations and sleep studies (screening and polysomnography studies). Parameters reported include obstructive apnea-hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation parameters, and CPAP pressures required for effective airway management.

CPAP pressure requirements increased in all three infants during their first weeks of life. Apnea indices on polysomnography did not track with the CPAP pressure requirements. Peak pressure requirements were at 5 and 7 weeks for two patients, with subsequent gradual decline and cessation of therapy CPAP at 39 and 74 weeks, respectively. The third patient had a complicated course, jaw distraction at 17 weeks, and biphasic CPAP pressure requirement (first peak at 3 weeks, but maximum pressure at 74 weeks), with cessation of CPAP at 75 weeks.

The observed pattern of early increases in CPAP pressure requirements for infants with Robin sequence adds to the complexities of managing this disorder. Factors that may lead to this pattern of change in airway obstruction are discussed.