Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026

Endoscopic Septoplasty with Limited Two-line Resection: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Septal Deviation
Published on: June 20, 2018
A Review of Indications and Technical Considerations of Endoscopic Balloon Dilation for Pediatric Subglottic Stenosis
Juma Obayashi1, Manabu Komori2, Yuri Nishiya1
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, St. Marianna University School of Medicine, 2-16-1 Sugao, Miyamae, Kawasaki 216-8511, Kanagawa, Japan.
Insights
Pediatric subglottic stenosis (SGS) can be treated with endoscopic balloon dilation, a less invasive option for early-stage cases. While effective, careful patient selection and follow-up are crucial to manage recurrence risks.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Airway Surgery
- Minimally Invasive Procedures
Background:
- Pediatric subglottic stenosis (SGS) is a common cause of upper airway obstruction in children, often due to prolonged intubation.
- Severe SGS typically requires invasive open airway reconstruction (e.g., LTR, PCTR).
- There is growing interest in less invasive treatments for pediatric SGS.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and assessment of pediatric SGS.
- To discuss the evolution of surgical management, focusing on endoscopic balloon dilation.
- To outline the technical aspects and patient selection criteria for balloon dilation.
Main Methods:
- Narrative literature review.
- Analysis of clinical experience with endoscopic balloon dilation for pediatric SGS.
- Discussion of technical elements like balloon sizing, radial incisions, and pharmacologic adjuncts.
Main Results:
- Endoscopic balloon dilation is effective for early-stage, short-segment, and soft acquired pediatric SGS.
- This technique can reduce the need for open airway reconstruction in selected patients.
- Recurrence of stenosis is a significant limitation, requiring careful patient selection and monitoring.
Conclusions:
- Endoscopic balloon dilation offers a valuable, less invasive option for managing select pediatric subglottic stenosis.
- Optimal outcomes depend on precise patient selection, technical execution, and diligent long-term follow-up.
- Further research may refine indications and improve management strategies to minimize recurrence.
Abstract:
Pediatric subglottic stenosis (SGS) remains a significant cause of upper airway obstruction in infants and children, most commonly resulting from prolonged endotracheal intubation. Although open airway reconstruction procedures such as laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) and partial cricotracheal resection (PCTR) provide definitive treatment for severe disease, their invasiveness and the burden of postoperative management have prompted increasing interest in less invasive approaches. Endoscopic balloon dilation has emerged as an effective therapeutic option, particularly for early-stage, short-segment, and soft acquired stenosis. This review summarizes the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and severity assessment of pediatric SGS, and discusses the evolution of surgical management with particular emphasis on the role of balloon dilation. Technical aspects-including balloon sizing, adjunctive radial incision, dilation protocols, and local pharmacologic therapies-are outlined. Endoscopic balloon dilation is most effective in carefully selected patients, particularly those with early-stage and less severe stenosis. While it can significantly reduce the need for open airway reconstruction, recurrence remains a key limitation, necessitating careful patient selection and long-term follow-up. This article represents a narrative review of the current literature combined with the authors' clinical experience.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due...
Endoscopic Procedures I: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
During an EGD, the endoscope can be used to:
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques
Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

