Trends Over 10 Years in Surgeons Performing Mandibular Distraction Osteogenesis in Infants: A National Cohort Study

ObjectiveIn our study, we aim to assess trends in mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO) management and outcomes among infants in a national database between 2012 and 2022.DesignA cross-sectional analysis of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) pediatric database was conducted from 2012 to 2022.SettingNot applicable.Patients, ParticipantsChildren under the age of 1 undergoing MDO.InterventionsSpecific interventions were not recorded due to the nature of the study.Main Outcome Measure(s)Trends in the number of MDO procedures performed by otolaryngology-head and neck surgeons (OHNS) and complication rates.ResultsWe identified 232 cases of MDO procedures for patients under the age of 1 year, of which 28.9% (N = 67) underwent surgery with OHNS. The proportion of MDO performed by OHNS over the study period did not exhibit a significant change in univariate Pearson correlation analysis (R = 0.426, P = .219). Non-OHNS and OHNS both demonstrated an overall complication rate of 33% (55/165 and 22/67, respectively). On multivariable regression, OHNS were more likely to treat patients with congenital lung disease (OR 5.48,95% CI 1.52-22.1, P = .011). The operative year was not associated with being treated by OHNS (P = .992).ConclusionsNo change in the proportion of MDO for patients under the age of 1 year performed by OHNS was observed over the past decade. OHNS are more likely to treat patients with congenital lung disease compared to their colleagues. Complication rates show no significant difference between non-OHNS and OHNS.