Congenital laryngeal cysts: current approach to management

Congenital laryngeal cysts are a rare cause of neonatal upper airway obstruction which may lead to serious morbidity and mortality if diagnosis and treatment are delayed. We reviewed our experience with nine patients over a six-year period. The annual incidence of this condition was 1.82 per 100,000 live births. The diagnosis can be confirmed safely by flexible laryngoscopy before definitive surgery is contemplated. Contrary to other studies, we found that endoscopic removal of cysts can achieve an effective cure without recurrence. Endoscopic deroofing is as effective as endoscopic excision but is technically simpler and thus is recommended as the treatment of choice.