Laryngotracheal Clefts: History, Evaluation, and Modern-Day Management

There has been considerable growth in our knowledge of laryngeal tracheoesophageal clefts or laryngeal clefts, an anomalous communication between the airway and the esophagus. The most recent classifications separate laryngeal clefts into 4 major groups differentiated by the depth of the cleft. Presentation includes respiratory and swallowing difficulties and work up includes evaluation in and out of the operating room. Minor grade clefts may be managed in a variety of ways while higher grade clefts will require surgical intervention. A multidisciplinary team is key in all aspects of diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.