Infant mandibular distraction in absence of ascending ramus: case series

ConclusionEarly mandibular distraction, specifically bidirectional distraction, is an effective and repeatable technique that leads to mandible lengthening with counterclockwise rotation, pogonion projection increase, anteropositioning of the tongue base, and expansion of oropharyngeal volume with positive effect on the respiratory problems of the infant. Even in Treacher Collins patients, known to have a low decannulation rate, all of these elements are essential for effective speech and swallowing therapy and for a subsequent attempt of decannulation.
Source: Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery - Category: ENT & OMF Source Type: research