Vascularized Hyoid Interposition for Subglottic and Upper Tracheal Stenosis

Abstract

Chronic subglottic and upper tracheal stenosis can be treated successfully with lumenal augmentation using a vascularized hyoid-sternohyoid muscle interposition into the stenotic area. Successful decannulation was achieved in eight of nine patients. Follow-up periods varied from 6 months to 36 months. Concomitant laryngeal stenosis and vocal cord paralysis were treated successfully at the same time. The major complication was occasionally delayed but successful decannulation due to granulation tissue. Minimal wound and peritracheal stoma infections probably accounted for the granulation tissue.