The Use of Airway with K-Wire for Pierre Robin Sequence

Pierre Robin Sequence (PRS) is characterized in the triad of glossoptosis, micrognathia, and airway obstruction. The first potential problem for newborn patients is airway obstruction; if we do not manage the respiration appropriately, the baby may die. We were able to manage the respiration of 2 isolated PRS patients without performing surgery by using an airway that increased original improvement (K-wire airway). This method was evaluated by lateral cephalometric radiographs and apnea monitors. The main advantages of this method are as follows: (1)To be able to manage without performing surgery. (2)To be able to breathe through the nostrils without using the K-wire airway. (3)To be 1静岡県立こども病院形成外科(主 任 朴 修三) 2杏林大学形成外科 Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shizuoka Children Hospital (Chief: Prof. Susam PARK) Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, School of Medicine, Kyorin University 別刷請求先:堀 切 将 〒420-8660静 岡県静岡市葵区漆山860 静岡県立こ ども病 院形成外科 〔2008年1月9日 受付 〕 able to shape the appropriate form for each child and to change the form with growth. The main disadvantages of this method are as follows: (1)The lumen of the airway easily becomes full of secretions. (2)Hospitalization is longer.(3)Respiration may become worse two months after birth. However, if the family of the patient participates in the treatment positively, these problems will be resolved. We think that this method is worth trying for the respiratory management of PRS children presenting airway obstruction.