Epiglottis reshaping using CO2 laser: A minimally invasive technique and its potent applications

Constantinos Bourolias,George Velegrakis,Emil Sobol,Emmanuel Helidonis,Jiannis Hajiioannou

doi:10.1186/1746-160x-4-15

Abstract

Laryngomalacia (LRM), is the most common laryngeal abnormality of the newborn, caused by a long curled epiglottis, which prolapses posteriorly. Epiglottis prolapse during inspiration (acquired laryngomalacia) is an unusual cause of airway obstruction and a rare cause of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS).We present a minimally invasive technique where epiglottis on cadaveric larynx specimens was treated with CO2 laser. The cartilage reshaping effect induced by laser irradiation was capable of exposing the glottis opening widely. This technique could be used in selected cases of LRM and OSAS due to epiglottis prolapse as an alternative, less morbid approach.

Highlights

Cartilage reshaping techniques are used in the field of reconstructive surgery in cases of congenital or acquired cartilage anomalies
We propose a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of selected cases of LRM and Obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS) due to epiglottis prolapse
The epiglottis reshaping effects follows mucosal coagulation by the laser irradiation as the beam is applied to the superficial cartilage layers

Summary

Introduction

Cartilage reshaping techniques are used in the field of reconstructive surgery in cases of congenital or acquired cartilage anomalies. Laryngomalacia (LRM) is the most common congenital laryngeal anomaly of the newborn, commonly caused by the in-drawing of the supraglottis with inward curling of both sides of the epiglottis, or by the backward projection of an extremely lax epiglottis [2]. We propose a minimally invasive technique for the treatment of selected cases of LRM and OSAS due to epiglottis prolapse.

Results

Conclusion