Surgeon transforms infant's life with innovative jaw procedure

BUFFALO, N.Y.: In a groundbreaking cross-continental collaboration, Dr. Michael Markiewicz, a pediatric craniomaxillofacial surgeon from the University at Buffalo, performed a life-changing surgery on a newborn in Tel Aviv, Israel, who was suffering from Pierre Robin Sequence (PRS). This rare craniofacial condition, characterized by an underdeveloped jaw and obstructed airway, left the three-day-old baby struggling to breathe.
The innovative procedure, mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO), was undertaken to avoid the traditional tracheostomy—a solution commonly used in Israel. Dr. Markiewicz’s expertise in this early-life intervention allowed the baby to breathe, eat, and drink on her own within days after surgery.
A critical need for speedy intervention
The baby's parents, advocating for the more advanced procedure, connected with Dr. Markiewicz through international contacts. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Dr. Markiewicz, along with his colleague Dr. Jessica Li, traveled to Tel Aviv. They performed the surgery in collaboration with Sheba Medical Center’s surgical team, enabling the baby’s jaw to be lengthened and her airway to open, eliminating the need for prolonged intubation or a tracheostomy.
Revolutionary outcomes
Mandibular distraction involves cutting the lower jaw and inserting a device to gradually extend it by up to three centimeters. This approach improves the jaw's position, bringing the tongue forward and clearing the airway. As a result, the baby was able to recover quickly, breathing unaided and feeding with the help of specialized bottles.
Dr. Markiewicz's success is a testament to the transformative power of medical innovation and international cooperation. He expressed hope that this successful surgery could inspire Israeli hospitals to adopt early-life MDO for infants with PRS, potentially revolutionizing the standard of care in the region."
Global impact of MDO
The procedure not only reflects advancements in pediatric surgery but also highlights the importance of collaborative healthcare. With PRS affecting approximately 1 in 8,500 to 14,000 births globally, timely interventions like MDO can prevent long-term complications and improve quality of life. Dr. Markiewicz has performed dozens of such surgeries and continues to educate healthcare providers worldwide about its benefits.
By bridging medical practices between countries, this story exemplifies the power of modern medicine to transcend borders and provide life-saving care.