Subglottic Stenosis
What is subglottic stenosis?
Subglottic Stenosis seen during exam
Enlarge+Subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords (subglottis). This narrowing is caused by scarring, usually from intubation, but it can also be caused by a birth defect called congenital subglottic stenosis. Congenital subglottic stenosis is a rare condition in which the airway narrows because the airway cartilage did not form normally in utero.
When the scarring from subglottic stenosis is limited to the back part of the vocal cords (inter-arytenoid region), it is called posterior glottic stenosis.
What causes subglottic stenosis?
The exact cause of the scarring is not known at this time but researchers continue to study it to get a better understanding of the contributing factors.
Signs of subglottic stenosis
- Noisy breating (stridor)
- Inability to breathe without a tracheostomy tube
- Recurring croup
How is subglottic stenosis treated?
Subglottic stenosis treatment depends upon how much scarring there is and how much it affects the child's breathing.
Treatment for mild cases
Mild cases of subglottic stenosis may be managed with observation, medication or treated endoscopically with balloon dilatation or a laser. Endoscopic treatment involves passing a thin tube with a camera and a light through the mouth and into the airway. From this position, the doctor can see the scarring and use a balloon to stretch the airway or a laser (a tiny beam of intensely focused light) to cut out the tissue that's blocking the airway.
Treatment for severe cases
Most patients with severe subglottic stenosis will be dependent on a tracheotomy ("trach") tube. The Sometimes laryngotracheal reconstruction surgery (LTR) is needed to be able to remove the tracheotomy tube. In laryntotracheal reconstruction surgery, the surgeon cuts through the airway from the outside to repair the damaged section inside.
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For more information about the conditions we treat or for help with airway problems, please contact us at 215-590-3440 and ask for the Airway Center coordinator.
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