Distraction osteogenesis of the mandible for airway obstruction in children.

Abstract

Objectives of the study were to determine the effectiveness of distraction osteogenesis of the mandible to relieve airway obstruction in children with tongue-base airway obstruction and to describe the new surgical techniques developed for use in infants and young children. Prospective, nonrandomized study. Analysis of 11 children with severe airway obstruction secondary to tongue-base obstruction was performed. Patients were between 2 weeks and 5.5 years of age. All patients underwent distraction osteogenesis of the mandible. Twelve distraction procedures in the 11 children in the study were accomplished; decannulation or extubation was successful in all children. Distraction osteogenesis of the mandible can be used to treat tongue-base airway obstruction in appropriately selected children.