Supraglottoplasty

supraglottoplasty airway Post-operative supraglottoplasty. Image shows a patient’s airway after the floppy arytenoids — characteristic of laryngomalacia — have been removed. Supraglottoplasty is a microscopic surgical procedure to alter malformed structures of the upper larynx. This allows a child with certain conditions (such as severe laryngomalacia) to breathe more easily.

This procedure is done through the mouth. A laser or surgical instruments may be used to conservatively remove obstructive tissue in the upper larynx. Supraglottoplasty surgery generally takes about one hour, and the child may or may not require a breathing tube overnight following the procedure. Photos of the airway will be taken to document the exam.

CO2 laser supraglottoplasty to treat laryngomalacia.