Diagnosis and Management of Cleft Larynx

Abstract

Laryngeal cleft is a rare congenital laryngeal anomaly that has been recognized more frequently in recent years. It can be a serious problem, consisting of separation of the arytenoids with a fissure resulting from a defect in the fusion of the posterior cricoid cartilage lamina. Dysphagia with aspiration of food is commonly seen with resultant bouts of pneumonia. Surgical repair has been successful in a handful of cases. This communication will review our institution's recent handling of a case successfully treated. The epidemiology, embryology, classification, diagnosis, and suggested treatment regimen for laryngeal cleft will also be outlined.