[Bridge synechiae of the larynx following long-term intubation]

Following long-term intubation there seems to be an increasing incidence of stenosis of the larynx and the upper trachea. In the larynx the common site of stenosis is the posterior commissure, with is difficult to treat. We report on three cases of post-intubation synechia bridging the glottic space in the region of the vocal process. In literature reports and in our experience, this kind of stenosis seems to be linked with a tracheotomy, which was performed to prevent severe damage to the trachea or larynx. In clinical diagnosis this synechia can easily be confused with bilateral palsy of the vocal cords. From this synechia fettering the vocal cords and arytenoids problems during intubation may arise. It can be treated by cutting it endoscopically without stenting the larynx.