Changes in speech and language development of a young child after decannulation

Abstract

This report reviews the speech and language development of a child who, as result of complete subglottic stenosis, was aphonic from birth until 2 years and 11 months of age at which time laryngotracheal reconstruction provided normal respiration. The boy had congenital subglottic stenosis requiring neonatal tracheostomy. The congenital subglottic stenosis progressed to complete subglottic stenosis during the neonatal period. The child's speech and language development was monitored for a 24-week period following airway reconstruction. Learning outcomes: The reader will learn about and be able to describe: (1) the speech and language development of a child who was aphonic from birth until 35 months of age, (2) the effects of surgical repair of a tracheotomy on the child's speech and language development, (3) the likely importance of babbling in speech and language development.