Pierre Robin syndrome (or sequence) is a condition present at
birth, in which the infant has a smaller-than-normal lower jaw,
a tongue that falls back in the throat, and difficulty
breathing. The exact causes of Pierre Robin syndrome are
unknown. It may be part of many genetic syndromes. The lower jaw
develops slowly before birth, but speeds up during the first
year of life. A health care provider can usually diagnose this
condition during a physical exam. Consulting with a genetics
specialist can rule out other problems linked to this syndrome.
Infants with this condition should NOT be put on their back, to
prevent the tongue from falling back into the airway. In
moderate cases, the patient will need to have a tube placed
through the nose and into the airways to avoid airway blockage.
In severe cases, surgery is needed to prevent a blockage in the
upper airway. Some patients need surgery to make a hole in the
windpipe (tracheostomy). Feeding must be done very carefully to
avoid choking and breathing liquids