Inter-arytenoid glottic bar following intubation

Abstract

AbstractInter-arytenoid glottic bar is a rare complication of prolonged endotracheal intubation. We present two such cases and their treatment.The aetiology of this complication is multifactorial and involves local factors—local tauma, movement of the endotracheal tube within the larynx, infection, and anatomical influences–together with systemic factors such as in our two cases.The relative importance of these factors is discussed.A comment is also made on the use of a pre-operative topogram and the importance of an ENT assessment in patients with airway problems following prolonged intubation.