Laryngotracheal Stenosis and Subglottic Stenosis

Laryngotracheal stenosis is the second most common cause of stridor in neonates and is the most common cause of airway obstruction requiring tracheostomy in infants. The glottis (vocal cords) and the upper trachea are compromised in most laryngeal stenosis, particularly those that develop following endotracheal intubation. Subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the subglottic larynx, which is the space extending from the undersurface of the true vocal cords to the inferior margin of the cricoid cartilage. Subglottic stenosis is considered congenital when there is no other apparent cause such as a history of laryngeal trauma or intubation. Approximately 90% of cases manifest in the 1st yr of life. Management relies on fine-tuning the airway, while ensuring the patient continues to grow. Knowledge of preventative measures is imperative to all healthcare members.