Micrognathia

Often the growth of the mandible will achieve a normal profile within 4–6 yr. The feeding of infants with mandibular hypoplasia requires great care and patience but can usually be accomplished without resorting to gavage. Pierre Robin sequence consists of micrognathia usually accompanied by a high arched or cleft palate. The tongue is usually of normal size, but the floor of the mouth is foreshortened. Obstruction of the air passages may occur, particularly on inspiration, and usually requires treatment to prevent suffocation. The infant should be maintained in a prone or partially prone position so that the tongue falls forward to relieve respiratory obstruction.