Low inter-arytenoid height: a subclassification of type 1 laryngeal cleft diagnosis and management

To report our experience of patients with type 1 laryngeal cleft, (including low inter-arytenoid height) who failed conservative management over a five year period. We describe the diagnostic elements of the history, examination at laryngobronchoscopy and provide a management algorithm including the use of inter-arytenoid submucosal injection of gelfoam as a temporary therapeutic as well as diagnostic tool.

A retrospective case note review over a five year period was undertaken to review all cases of type 1 laryngeal cleft who failed conservative management. Presenting symptoms, diagnostic procedures, surgical interventions and clinical outcomes were reviewed.

Seventeen patients were identified. Chronic cough was the most consistent feature in the history (100%). All patients underwent a microlaryngoscopy with binocular microlaryngeal assessment. Six patients (35%) underwent gelfoam injection; four of these went on to a formal repair. The remaining 11 all had a repair performed without injection. The success of surgical repair was 80% (12/15) however in the other three, all had improvement in symptoms.

Type 1 laryngeal cleft anomalies may extend beyond that described by Benjamin and Inglis. An appropriate history as well as binocular inspection at the time of laryngoscopy is essential. Injection augmentation offers a safe tool in the assessment and management, and endoscopic surgical repair remains the standard for definitive therapy in those that fail conservative management.