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Arytenoid prolapse as a consequence of cricotracheal resection in children
M J Rutter1, D T Link, B E Hartley
1Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology, Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229-3039, USA.
Insights
A new complication of cricotracheal resection (CTR) in children is arytenoid cartilage prolapse. This condition can cause breathing difficulties or be asymptomatic, and is effectively treated with endoscopic laser partial arytenoidectomy.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Surgical Complications
- Airway Management
Background:
- Cricotracheal resection (CTR) is a surgical technique for severe pediatric laryngotracheal stenosis.
- Known complications include nerve damage, dehiscence, and restenosis.
- This study identifies arytenoid cartilage prolapse as a novel CTR complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe arytenoid cartilage prolapse as a complication of pediatric cricotracheal resection.
- To outline diagnostic methods and treatment options for this condition.
- To report the incidence and outcomes of arytenoid prolapse in children post-CTR.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 44 children undergoing CTR.
- Diagnosis via flexible nasopharyngoscopy or rigid endoscopy.
- Assessment of symptoms, including dyspnea and nocturnal stertor.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes, including laser arytenoidectomy and CPAP.
Main Results:
- Twenty of 44 children (45%) developed post-operative arytenoid prolapse.
- Twelve patients (27%) were asymptomatic.
- Eight patients (18%) required endoscopic laser partial arytenoidectomy.
- Two patients (4.5%) developed moderate supraglottic collapse requiring CPAP.
Conclusions:
- Arytenoid cartilage prolapse is an underrecognized complication of pediatric CTR.
- Diagnosis can be made with laryngoscopy, and treatment with laser arytenoidectomy is effective.
- While often asymptomatic, prolapse can lead to significant airway obstruction requiring intervention.
Abstract:
Cricotracheal resection (CTR) is a technique introduced comparatively recently for treating severe laryngotracheal stenosis in children. The recognized complications of CTR include recurrent laryngeal nerve damage, anastomotic dehiscence, and restenosis. We describe a further complication of CTR, namely, prolapse of the arytenoid cartilage. The presentation may be late, with symptoms of shortness of breath on exertion and nocturnal stertor with a poor sleep pattern, or the prolapse may be an asymptomatic incidental finding. The diagnosis is performed with flexible nasopharyngoscopy with the patient unanesthetized, or with rigid endoscopy with the patient lightly anesthetized and spontaneously ventilating. The affected arytenoid cartilage is noted to prolapse anteriorly and medially with inspiration, partly obstructing the airway. If treatment is required, endoscopic laser partial arytenoidectomy is effective. In a series of 44 children who underwent CTR, 20 were noted to develop arytenoid prolapse after operation. Twelve were asymptomatic, and 8 required laser arytenoidectomy, 2 of whom now require continuous positive airway pressure for moderate supraglottic collapse.
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