What Is Pierre Robin Sequence?
Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) is a birth defect that involves an abnormally small lower jaw and a tendency for the tongue to fall backward toward the throat and block the airway.
PRS is called a sequence because it is thought to result from a series of events that take place as the embryo forms in early pregnancy. In PRS, it is thought that the initial defect of the fetus's lower jaw leads to abnormal placement of the tongue. The displaced tongue causes clefting of the palate.
Pierre Robin Sequence in Children
In 1923, Pierre Robin, a French physician, linked the above symptoms with breathing problems in affected infants. The current complete name is Pierre Robin malformation sequence, but it is also known as Robin Anomalad; Pierre Robin complex; and Pierre Robin syndrome.
PRS can occur by itself (isolated PRS) or in combination with other birth defects that affect the head and neck, such as Stickler syndrome.
Pierre Robin Sequence at Seattle Children’s
Over the past five years, we have treated 81 children with PRS. Each year 10 to 15 children come to our Center for treatment for the first time. Last year we performed 34 surgeries on children with this condition.