Idiopathic subglottic stenosis: techniques and results

Idiopathic subglottic stenosis is a rare condition of unknown etiology characterized by circumferential stenosis in the subglottic larynx and upper trachea. Historically, patients were treated with dilation or ablation, however this approach has proven to be largely palliative and often leads to recurrence and the need for tracheostomy. A single-staged laryngotracheal resection and reconstruction is now the preferred definitive treatment for idiopathic subglottic stenosis and can be performed with excellent patient outcomes and rare subsequent progression of the disease. Avoiding anastomotic tension and devascularization are important technical keys to minimizing complications.