Thyroid ala cartilage reconstruction in neonatal subglottic stenosis as a replacement for the anterior cricoid split

Cricoid split is the procedure of choice in neonatal subglottic stenosis in many paediatric institutions. However, the post-operative care of these patients is a concern given the potentially lethal complications which can occur, in particular, self-extubation. We have been using the thyroid ala cartilage (TAC) reconstruction, a proven technique, as an alternative treatment for this disorder to avoid these complications. The purpose of this study was to compare the results of the TAC reconstruction for this patient population with the results of the cricoid split procedure previously reviewed at our own institution. Between January 1995 and December 1999, 17 patients that underwent the TAC reconstruction for neonatal subglottic stenosis were retrospectively reviewed. Of the 17 patients, two patients required tracheotomy prior to discharge from hospital. Fifteen patients were discharged from hospital with a safe airway without tracheotomy. There were only two minor complications. Compared with the cricoid split study, the success rate with TAC reconstruction was higher (88 vs 83%) and the major complication rate was lower (0 vs 9%). Factors associated with failed procedures may include prematurity, low birth and surgical weight and presence of severe GER. Those that failed required much greater resources in terms of post-operative care and length of hospital stay. The TAC reconstruction has replaced cricoid split in treatment of neonates with subglottic stenosis at our institution.