Epiglottitis: Evolution in Management

Abstract

In the past decade, changes have occurred in the management of epiglottitis. A ten-year retrospective study of 64 patients admitted to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia with the diagnosis of epiglottitis was performed. An evolution in the management of epiglottitis was demonstrated in this series of patients. The morbidity and mortality of currently employed modes of airway management (medical observation, endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy) were compared. There were no deaths in the series. Endotracheal intubation had a lower rate of complication than treatment with tracheostomy. A small, select group was conservatively managed with close observation. The use of antibiotics and steroids was analyzed. Suggested guidelines for management of epiglottitis are presented.