[Current therapeutic trends in the oto-mandibular syndrome]

The authors describe the characteristics of oto-mandibular syndrome (hemifacial microsomia), underlining that the knowledge of the craniofacial growth and the analysis of the deformities are necessary for a correct surgical approach. The skeletal abnormalities, and in particular the mandibular deformity, are the first step of treatment, which is begun more and more often before the age of six to minimize the skeletal distortion and to decrease the psychological problems of the child. Nevertheless, several surgical procedures are generally required up to the age of 12-16 to obtain a good symmetry. The reconstruction of the ear is deferred, whenever possible, until the mandibular and zygomatic osseous framework have been established to avoid a location in an unfavorable site. The earliest age of repair is six years. Early correction of macrostomia is needed in order to obtain a functioning and symmetric oral sphincter. The possible deficiency of soft tissues does not always require surgery and is the last step of treatment of hemifacial microsomia.