Distraction osteogenesis of the mandible for airway obstruction in children

Objectives: Objectives of the study were to determine the effectiveness of distraction osteogenesis of the mandible to relieve airway obstruction in c hildren with tongue-base airway obstruction and to describe the new surgica l techniques developed for use in infants and young children. Study Design: Prospective, nonrandomized study. Methods: Analysis of 11 children with se vere airway obstruction secondary to tongue-base obstruction was performed. Patients were between 2 weeks and 5.5 years of age. Ah patients underwent distraction osteogenesis of the mandible. Results: Twelve distraction proce dures in the 11 children in the study were accomplished; decannulation or e xtubation was successful in all children. Conclusion: Distraction osteogene sis of the mandible can be used to treat tongue-base airway obstruction in appropriately selected children.