[Tracheal stenosis following direct laryngoscopy]

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Progressive dyspnoea (shortness of breath) can be a disabling symptom.
• Direct laryngoscopy (LD) is a common medical procedure.
• Subglottic stenosis is a rare but serious complication of airway procedures.

Observation:

• A 58-year-old female presented with dyspnoea three months post-direct laryngoscopy.
• Pulmonary function tests revealed high fixed airway obstruction.
• Fibreoptic endoscopy identified a non-neoplastic subglottic diaphragm causing stenosis.

Findings:

• The subglottic stenosis was successfully and permanently treated using a YAG laser.
• This case suggests traumatic stenosis secondary to inflamed larynx post-direct laryngoscopy as a potential cause.
• This specific etiology for tracheal stenosis following laryngoscopy has not been previously documented.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider post-laryngoscopy traumatic subglottic stenosis in patients with unexplained dyspnoea.
• Early diagnosis and intervention, such as laser treatment, can effectively manage this rare condition.
• Awareness of this potential complication is crucial for patient safety and effective diagnosis.