The Jaw Index: New Guide Defining Micrognathia in Newborns

Abstract

Micrognathia can be defined with the jaw index.

Videonasopharyngoscopy is useful for identifying children with Pierre Robin sequence and severe obstructive sleep apnea

“…Van der Haven described the mandibular index as a measure of abnormality in the obstruction of airways in children with PR. However, he did not appropriately established a relation between the index and OSAS [27]. Even on the early descriptions of the syndrome, an obstruction at the upper airway is mentioned as a major component [11].…”

Robin sequence: A European survey on current practice patterns

“…To determine the size and/or position of the mandible in the RS child, a number of measurement methods have been described in literature, such as the jaw index, plain x-rays, and computed tomgraphy scans (Figueroa et al 1991;Laitinen and Ranta 1992;van der Haven et al 1997;Vegter et al 1999;Daskalogiannakis et al 2001). In this survey, the majority of the respondents relied on clinical sight in the determination of an (ab)normal size and/or position of the mandible.…”

Robin Sequence: From Diagnosis to Development of an Effective Management Plan

“…49 Many modalities to objectify micrognathia and glossoptosis have been used; however, few apply to neonates and infants, and none has been universally adopted. 50,51 Pruzansky and Richmond 52 used cephalograms (lateral radiographs that illustrate the facial profile, mandibular length, and distance between the upper and lower alveoli 53,54 ) to analyze mandibular form and growth in children with micrognathia. He postulated that the mandible possesses significant potential for growth in children with RS.…”