Congenital laryngeal atresia

Abstract

Laryngeal atresia is a rare congenital anomaly requiring immediate tracheotomy as a lifesaving measure. A case of subglottic laryngeal atresia is reported and correlated with laryngeal embryogenesis. Three types of laryngeal atresia are described. Although tracheoesophageal fistula is commonly associated with laryngeal atresia, one must be careful not to confuse a pharyngotracheal duct with a tracheoesophageal fistula. A disproportionate number of reported TE fistulas associated with laryngeal atresia may result if an accurate distinction between pharyngotracheal duct and TE fistula is not made.