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Laryngeal (tracheal) stenosis is a narrowing of the upper airway that results in difficulty breathing. Most commonly, laryngeal stenosis is caused by trauma secondary to endotracheal intubation, particularly if the intubation period is longer than 10 days.
Additional causes of laryngeal stenosis include:
Gastroesophageal reflux
Caustic ingestion
Respiratory infection (e.g., croup)
External injury to the larynx and/or trachea
Surgery on the larynx and/or trachea
Treatment of laryngeal stenosis is based upon the extent of the stenosis, as well as the general medical health of the patient. Treatment options include:
Medical observation: For mild cases of stenosis, standard follow-up care and the aggressive management of any upper respiratory infections are typically recommended.
Intralesional injections or applications: For cases of laryngeal stenosis caused by infection or inflammatory disorders of the airway, the condition may be appropriately managed with the use of antibiotics and/or steroids.
Endoscopic (endolaryngeal) procedures: Minimally invasive procedures (e.g. use of carbon dioxide laser) can be used to dilate (open) the airways of patients with moderate laryngeal stenosis.
Open surgical reconstruction: For the most severe cases of laryngeal stenosis, open surgical procedures (e.g. tracheotomy) are typically necessary to open up the airways and restore normal breathing.
After treatment, patients with laryngeal stenosis require close follow-up care from a pulmonologist to monitor breathing function and check for any further obstructions in the airways.
