A seven-year-old boy in England is enjoying new independence after surgeons at Bristol Children’s Hospital rebuilt his jaw using pieces of his own ribs. William Tuckwell was born with a rare condition that affects bone development in his face. Because his lower jaw was so small, his tongue blocked his airway, and he needed a breathing tube shortly after birth.
A team led by consultant surgeon Alistair Cobb performed a seven-hour operation, using rib segments from both sides of William’s body to create new jaw joints. After surgery, he had to wear a metal frame around his head. His family tightened small screws each day to slowly lengthen his jaw, and hospital staff checked his progress twice a week.
William no longer needs a breathing tube and can now eat comfortably, even sharing snacks with friends. His mother says it was difficult to decide on such a major surgery, but the results have brought relief and joy to the whole family. With his airway open and new abilities taking shape, William is dreaming big and says he wants to be an astronaut someday.
Source: SUNNY SKYZ