Which intervention may alleviate respiratory distress in a baby with Robin sequence?

Positioning a baby with Robin sequence in a prone position can help alleviate respiratory distress. This is due to the anatomical changes associated with Robin sequence, which typically includes micrognathia (a smaller-than-normal jaw) and glossoptosis (a downward displacement of the tongue). These conditions can lead to airway obstruction, particularly when the baby is placed in a supine (face up) position, as gravity may cause the tongue to fall back further into the throat, exacerbating breathing difficulties.

When the baby is placed in a prone position (face down), it can help to keep the tongue in a more forward position relative to the airway. This reduces the likelihood of airway obstruction and can improve ventilation. Prone positioning is often employed as an intervention to enhance respiratory function in these infants until more definitive measures, such as surgical intervention or other medical support, can be considered if necessary.

In contrast, other interventions, such as positioning the baby supine, could worsen the airway obstruction due to the reasons mentioned. The use of equipment like a CPAP machine or an endotracheal tube may be appropriate in acute situations, but these are more invasive options and are typically considered only in more severe cases of respiratory distress. In less critical situations or as