[Laryngotracheal widening surgical techniques by external approach]

Surgical approach to laryngo-tracheal stenosis can be divided into: immediate approach and delayed approach. The aim of the immediate approach is to restore breathing and to repair the damage produced by the trauma. Delayed approach (the most frequent approach to the laryngeal and tracheal stenosis) has the purpose to reconstruct larynx and trachea removing scar tissue and improving lumen of the respiratory tract. In this paper the surgical external techniques employed in the widening of the larynx and trachea after blunt and/or penetrating trauma with secondary stenosis are evaluated. For each technique indications, pitfall conditions and complications are considered. Long term results are discussed.