Laryngeal Surgery in the Pediatric Patient

Abstract

The primary concern in laryngeal surgery in the infant and child is to relieve airway obstruction, rather than phonation. Because airway obstruction above the larynx may simulate or be confused with laryngeal pathology, these are described as the signs and symptoms of laryngeal disease. Although tracheotomy in the infant is frequently said to be a cause of a long-term problem, the procedure can be carried out in the smallest premature quite safely and without an extubation problem. The author's method of performing the operation is described. Most laryngeal surgery in the child is performed by the endoscopic approach, special scopes being used for special purposes. In addition to conventional instrumentation the cryoprobe and CO2 laser are employed. The author's method of treating glottic and subglottic stenosis is outlined.