Single-stage Laryngotracheal Reconstruction Research Articles

Postoperative management of pediatric patients undergoing single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction in the United States: A survey of ASPO members

IntroductionThe postoperative management of single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (ssLTR) plays a significant role in the surgery's outcomes. The relatively prolonged period in which the child remains intubated and sedated to allow graft healing may be complicated by pulmonary sequelae, airway obstruction, withdrawal symptoms, and eventually failed extubation. This study aims to assess post-ssLTR practices among pediatric otolaryngologists. MethodAn electronic cross-sectional survey was distributed to the American Society of Pediatric Otolaryngology (ASPO) members to elucidate current protocols in post-ssLTR practice in the United States. ResultsEighty-six responses were recorded. A majority (60 %; n = 50) reported performing fewer than five ssLTRs per year. The mean time to bronchoscopy following ssLTR was postoperative day 8±3 for ssLTR with a posterior graft and postoperative day 7±3 without a posterior graft. Most practitioners reported avoiding paralytics (61 %, n = 44) unless the desired level of sedation could not be achieved. Most providers utilized pre-pyloric feeding via a nasogastric or gastrostomy tube (n = 50, 72 %). A total of 70 % (n = 49) of respondents use a single medication for acid suppression, whereas 21 % (n = 15) reported dual-acid suppression whether the patient was diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux prior to surgery or not, regardless of feeding route. Nebulized agents were routinely used, with normal saline (43 %; n = 36) being the most reported agent. ConclusionThe postoperative management after ssLTR varies greatly among pediatric otolaryngologists due to a lack of evidence-based data to support one protocol over the other. Multi-institutional studies should be considered to evaluate current protocols and improve postoperative care.

In-depth analysis of pre- and postoperative functional outcome parameters in patients receiving laryngotracheal surgery.

Surgical treatment for airway stenosis necessitates personalized techniques based on the stenosis location and length, leading to favourable surgical outcomes. However, there is limited literature on functional outcomes following laryngotracheal surgery with an adequate number of patients. We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent laryngotracheal surgery at the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, from January 2017 to June 2021. The study included standardized functional assessments before and after surgery, encompassing spirometry, voice measurements, swallowing evaluation and subjective patient perception. The study comprised 45 patients with an average age of 51.9 ± 15.9 years, of whom 89% were female, with idiopathic being the most common aetiology (67%). Procedures included standard cricotracheal resection in 11%, cricotracheal resection with dorsal mucosal flap in 49%, cricotracheal resection with dorsal mucosal flap and lateral cricoplasty in 24% and single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction in 16%. There were no in-hospital mortalities or restenosis cases during the mean follow-up period of 20.8 ± 13.2 months. Swallowing function remained intact in all patients. Voice evaluations showed a decrease in fundamental vocal pitch [203 (81-290) Hz vs 150 (73-364) Hz, P < 0.001] and dynamic voice range (23.5 ± 5.8 semitones vs 17.8 ± 6.7 semitones, P < 0.001). However, no differences in voice volume were observed (60.0 ± 4.1 dB vs 60.2 ± 4.8 dB, P = 0.788). The overall predicted voice profile changed from R0B0H0 to R1B0H1. Laryngotracheal surgery proves effective in fully restoring breathing capacity while preserving vocal function. Even in cases of high-grade and complex airway stenosis necessitating laryngotracheal reconstruction, favourable functional outcomes can be achieved.

Single stage pediatric airway reconstruction in solid organ transplant recipients

ObjectivesTo describe results of single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (ssLTR) in patients with solid organ transplants and to discuss modifications which need to be considered in this subset of patients pre-operatively, intra-operatively and post-operatively. Study designWe performed a retrospective case series review of children undergoing single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction in the context of prior solid organ transplant. SettingA tertiary care academic setting. MethodsPediatric cases undergoing Laryngotracheal reconstruction over a 3-year period. Demographic data including age, sex, presenting symptoms, operative details. ResultsTwo cases of ssLTR in solid organ transplant patients were found, one each with renal and cardiac transplants respectively. Both patients successfully underwent ssLTR for Grade 2 subglottic stenosis. The care of these patients was multidisciplinary and required alterations in their preoperative prophylactic antibiotics. While they did not require changes to the LTR post-operative sedation protocol, their immunosuppressant doses and target ranges were lowered. Special care was taken to avoid nephrotoxic and cardiotoxic medications throughout their hospital stay. ConclusionsAlthough traditionally considered for double stage laryngotracheal reconstruction, single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction is a viable option in patients with solid organ transplant. These patients require a multidisciplinary approach and pharmacological protocol alterations pre-, intra-, and post-operatively.

Immediate extubation after single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction for subglottic stenosis in children

PurposeTo evaluate the feasibility and clarify the appropriate indications for extubation immediately after single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (SS-LTR) in pediatric subglottic stenosis (SGS).MethodsA retrospective study was performed from July 2017 to July 2022. All patients underwent SS-LTR with anterior costal cartilage graft. Information such as demographics, comorbidities, history of intubation or tracheostomy, Classification and grading of airway stenosis, the operation-specific decannulation rate and overall decannulation rate were analyzed.ResultsTwenty-two patients with simple SGS were identified. The median age at SS-LTR was 19 months (IQR = 18.5 months). Fourteen patients (63.6%) were intubated prior to the presentation of symptoms. Fourteen patients (63.6%) required preoperative tracheostomy to maintain a secure airway. Eight patients (36.4%) had congenital SGS, 10 patients (45.5%) had acquired SGS, and 4 patients (18.2%) had mixed SGS. Three patients had Grade II stenosis. Nineteen patients had Grade III stenosis. Comorbidities were found in 10 patients (45.5%). Major comorbidities were pneumonia. Congenital airway anomalies were found in 6 patients (27.3%). After anesthesia, all 22 patients were successfully extubated and returned to the general ward. Twenty patients had a satisfactory airway after SS-LTR. Two patients required reintubation or tracheostomy after operation. Operation-specific decannulation rate was 90.9%. The overall decannulation rate is 100%.ConclusionSS-LTR with anterior costal cartilage graft is an effective method to treat simple SGS ranging from Grades I to III in children. Extubation immediately after surgery is safe and feasible.

Estimating perioperative outcomes after pediatric laryngotracheal reconstruction surgery in accordance with ACS-NSQIP-P reporting

BackgroundThe American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program-Pediatric (ACS-NSQIP-P) database monitors quality outcomes in pediatric surgery. However, the registry might underreport low-volume procedures. This review describes complications after laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) based on ACS-NSQIP-P reporting standards. MethodsA case series with chart review at a tertiary children's hospital included consecutive LTR procedures between 2010 and 2018. Surgical procedures were grouped into single- or double-stage for comparison of thirty-day complication rates. ResultsEighty-four procedures were reviewed with 70% (59/84) double-stage and 30% (25/84) single-stage. Children requiring double-stage procedures were younger (3.3 vs. 6.0 years, P = .002) and more often Black or African American (51% vs. 24%, P = .03). Double-stage LTR was frequently performed on children with grade 3 or 4 subglottic stenosis (90% vs. 52%, P < 001), with a tracheostomy (97% vs. 68%, P = .001) and with gastroesophageal reflux disease (93% vs. 67%, P = .004). Airway-related complications occurred in 19% (16/84) of children and non-airway complications occurred in 16% (13/84) with similar rates between groups. Unplanned reintubation (20% vs. 0%, P = .002), ventilator support longer than 48 hours (12% vs. 0%, P = .02), and total hospitalization lengths (15.6 vs. 6.5 days, P < .001) were increased after single-stage LTR. Children with non-airway complications had more central nervous system disorders (46% vs. 10%, P = .004). ConclusionPostoperative complications after pediatric LTR occur in nearly 20% of children and single-stage procedures have higher unplanned reintubations, prolonged ventilator support and hospitalization lengths. Surgeons should recognize that these typically minor events should be consistently monitored and reported after surgical expansion of the pediatric airway.Level of evidence: IV

Laryngotracheal resection can be performed safely without a guardian Chin stitch-a single-centre experience including 165 consecutive patients.

A tension-free anastomosis is crucial to minimize the risk of airway complications after laryngotracheal surgery. The 'guardian' chin stitch is placed to prevent hyperextension of the neck in the early postoperative period. This manoeuvre was introduced early in tracheal surgery and is now routinely performed by many airway surgeons. However, the evidence for or against is sparse. We performed a retrospective analysis of all adult patients receiving a (laryngo-)tracheal resection at our department from October 2011 to December 2019. According to our institutional standard, none of the patients received a chin stitch. Instead, a head cradle was used to obtain anteflexion of the neck during the first 3 days and patients were instructed to avoid hyperextension of the neck during the hospital stay. The postoperative outcome and the rate of anastomotic complications were analysed. A total of 165 consecutive patients were included in this study. Median age at surgery was 53 years (18-80). Seventy-four patients received a tracheal resection, 24 a cricotracheal resection, 52 an extended cricotracheal resection including dorsal mucosectomy and 15 a single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction. The median resection length was 25 mm (range 10-55 mm). One hundred and sixty-two out of 165 (98.2%) patients had an unremarkable postoperative course. One patient (0.6%) had partial anastomotic rupture after a traumatic reintubation, which required revision surgery and re-anastomosis. Two patients (1.2%) after previous radiation therapy (>60 Gy) developed a partial necrosis of the anastomosis, resulting in prolonged airleak and fistulation. At follow-up, bronchoscopy 3 months after surgery, 92.7% (127/137) of the patients had a proper anastomosis, 6.6% (9/137) had minor granuloma formations at the site of the anastomosis, which were all treated successfully by endoscopic removal. One patient received dilatation for restenosis (0.7%). After sufficient mobilization of the central airways, postoperative anteflexion of the neck supported by a head cradle is sufficient to prevent excessive anastomotic tension and dehiscence. Considering the risk for severe neurological complications associated with the chin stitch, the routine use of this manoeuvre in laryngotracheal surgery should not be recommended.

Functional outcome after single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with rib cartilage grafting

ObjectiveSingle-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (SSLTR) provides a definite surgical treatment for patients with complex glotto-subglottic stenosis. To date, the influence of SSLTR on the functional outcome after surgery has not been analyzed. MethodsA retrospective analysis of all patients receiving a SSLTR between November 2012 and October 2019 was performed. Preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively, patients received a full functional evaluation, including spirometry; voice measurements (eg, fundamental frequency; dynamic range, singing voice range, and perceptual voice evaluation using the Roughness-Breathiness-Hoarseness [RBH] score, and fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing [FEES]). ResultsA total of 15 patients with a mean age of 45 ± 17 years underwent SSTLR. Two (13%) patients were men and 13 (87%) were women. The majority of patients (67%) had undergone previous surgical or endoscopic treatment attempts that had failed. At the 3-month follow-up visit, none of the patients had signs of penetration or aspiration in their swallowing examination. Voice measurements revealed a significantly lower fundamental voice frequency (201.0 Hz vs 155.5 Hz; P = .006), whereas voice range (19.1 semitones vs 14.9 semitones; P = .200) and dynamic range (52.5 dB vs 53.0 dB; P = .777) was hardly affected. The median RBH score changed from R1 B0 H1 to R2 B1 H2. In spirometry, breathing capacity increased significantly (peak expiratory flow, 44% vs 87% [P < .001] and mean expiratory flow at 75% of vital capacity, 48% vs 90% [P < .001]). During a median follow-up of 32.5 months (range, 7-88 months), none of the patients developed re-stenosis. ConclusionsFor complex glotto-subglottic stenoses, durable long-term airway patency together with reasonable voice quality and normal deglutition can be achieved by SSLTR.

Laryngeal Mask as the Primary Airway Device During Laryngotracheal Surgery: Data From 108 Patients

Airway management during repair of laryngotracheal stenosis is demanding, and there is currently no accepted standard of care. Recently an increasing number of airway centers have started to use a laryngeal mask until the airway is surgically exposed and cross-table ventilation can be initiated. However detailed data on this approach are missing in the literature. Patients receiving laryngotracheal surgery from November 2011 until October 2018 were retrospectively included in this single-center study, except for patients who presented with a preexisting tracheostomy at time of surgery. Airway management uniformly consisted of laryngeal mask ventilation until cross-table ventilation was established. Clinical variables, perioperative complications, and airway complications were analyzed. One hundred eight patients (65 women, 43 men) receiving tracheal resection (n= 50), cricotracheal resection (n= 49), or single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (n= 9) were included in the analysis. Of the included patients 23 (21.3%) had malignant disease and 85 (78.7%) a benign pathology. In the subgroup of patients with subglottic disease 85.1% had high-grade stenosis (Myer-Cotton III°). Airway management with a laryngeal mask was successful in all except 1 patient (99.1%). Mean pulse oximetry and mean end-tidal CO2 during laryngeal mask ventilation was 98.7% ± 2.4% and 34.8 ± 7.6 mm Hg, respectively. At the end of surgery 95 patients (88%) were successfully weaned from the respirator using the laryngeal mask. The laryngeal mask as the primary airway device is feasible and safe in patients undergoing laryngotracheal surgery even in cases with high-grade stenosis.

Laryngotracheal Reconstruction in the Pediatric Burn Patient: Surgical Techniques and Decision Making.

The management of laryngotracheal stenosis (LTS) in the pediatric burn patient is complex and requires a multidisciplinary approach. The mainstay of treatment for LTS is laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR), however, limited reports of burn-specific LTR techniques exist. Here, we provide insight into the initial airway evaluation, surgical decision making, anesthetic challenges, and incision modifications based on our experience in treating patients with this pathology. The initial airway evaluation can be complicated by microstomia, trismus, and neck contractures-the authors recommend treatment of these complications prior to initial airway evaluation to optimize safety. The surgical decision making regarding pursuing single-stage LTR, double-stage LTR, and 1.5-stage LTR can be challenging-the authors recommend 1.5-stage LTR when possible due to the extra safety of rescue tracheostomy and the decreased risk of granuloma, which is especially important in pro-inflammatory burn physiology. Anesthetic challenges include obtaining intravenous access, securing the airway, and intravenous induction-the authors recommend peripherally inserted central catheter when appropriate, utilizing information from the initial airway evaluation to secure the airway, and avoidance of succinylcholine upon induction. Neck and chest incisions are often within the TBSA covered by the burn injury-the authors recommend modifying typical incisions to cover unaffected skin whenever possible in order to limit infection and prevent wound healing complications. Pediatric LTR in the burn patient is challenging, but can be safe when the surgeon is thoughtful in their decision making.

Sedation withdrawal following single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction: Does dexmedetomidine help?

ObjectivesSingle-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (SS-LTR) requires a period of post-operative intubation, during which time adequate sedation is needed to ensure graft healing. Commonly used agents include benzodiazepines, opioids, and more recently, dexmedetomidine, a centrally-acting α2 adrenoreceptor. This study aims to compare withdrawal outcomes between various sedation regimens following SS-LTR. MethodsRetrospective chart review of 56 patients who underwent SS-LTR between 2008 and 2018 at a tertiary free-standing children's hospital was performed. Of 47 patients with complete records, 18 patients received dexmedetomidine for >75% of their intubation period with midazolam (DexWM), 9 received dexmedetomidine for >75% without midazolam (DexWOM), and 20 received dexmedetomidine for <75% with midazolam (noDex). Results: There was no significant difference in length of PICU or hospital stay between the groups. The noDex group trended toward a higher re-intubation rate of 25%, as compared with 11% of DexWOM and 5.6% of DexWM (p = 0.21). There was no significant difference in days of oral sedation taper required or Withdrawal Assessment Tool (WAT-1) score for post-extubation days 1 and 3. By post-extubation day 5, 100% of the DexWM group had WAT-1 scores <3 as compared with 71.4% of the noDex group (p = 0.037). Notably, lower average daily doses of dexmedetomidine and midazolam were used in the DexWM group, as compared with the DexWOM and noDex groups, respectively. Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine as a primary sedation agent with midazolam allows for adequate sedation following SS-LTR. The combination of the two drugs in the DexWM group not only reduced the dosage of each drug needed, but also significantly improved WAT-1 scores by post-extubation day 5, as compared with the alternative sedation regimens.

Outcomes Using a Postoperative Protocol in Pediatric Single-Stage Laryngotracheal Reconstruction.

The aim of this study was to evaluate single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (ssLTR) outcomes before and after the implementation of a postoperative care protocol in pediatric patients. A case-control study with chart review was conducted at 2 tertiary academic centers from 2010 to 2016. Pediatric patients who underwent ssLTR with a postoperative care protocol were compared with those who did not receive care under this protocol. Data regarding perioperative management were collected and compared using χ2 and Wilcoxon rank tests. Planned extubation, length of intubation in the intensive care unit, and complications were examined. Nineteen patients completed ssLTR after the protocol was initiated, and 26 prior patients were used as control subjects. Planned extubation failed in 9 patients (35%) in the control group compared with 1 patient (5%) in the protocol group (P < .05). Using a structured protocol demonstrated a decrease in delayed extubation and intensive care unit stay (P < .05). Despite more postprotocol patients' requiring posterior graft placement, preprotocol patients were less likely to be extubated within 7 days (P < .05). The authors propose an intensive care unit protocol that uses a combination of pharmacologic agents to optimally reduce the risk for adverse events that delay time to extubation and thus decannulation. Timely extubation was more likely with the use of this postoperative care protocol using a multidisciplinary approach involving otolaryngologists, pharmacists, intensivists, and anesthesiologists.

Structured care to improve outcomes in primary single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction

PurposeTo examine single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction (SSLTR) care to reduce complication and failure rate. MethodsForty-five patients that underwent primary SSLTR were examined retrospectively. All had pre-operative direct laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy, esophagoscopy with biopsy and MRSA screening. Pre-operative subglottic stenosis (SGS) grade and associated comorbidities were recorded. Intraoperative graft location and type was documented. Hospital course and results were evaluated and compared to cited literature. ResultsThe median age at reconstruction was 2 years (0–15 years). 42.2% were male. 66.7% had gastroesophageal disease and 24.4% a MRSA history. Grade 2 SGS was noted pre-operatively in 37.8% and grade 3 or 4 in 57.7% of patients. Post-surgical hospital course was examined. 77.8% of patients were extubated on planned date. 95.6% of patients had operation specific successful decannulation. Graft type and variations of graft placement as well as MRSA and GERD status didn't affect procedure success rate. Active GERD was related to failure of extubation on planned day (p = 0.02). An abnormal pre-operative swallowing examination was associated with higher complication rates (p = 0.03). ConclusionUtilizing a more structured approach to SSLTR work-up and addressing potential SSLTR pitfalls may result in higher operation specific decannulation rates. Pre-operative GERD and swallowing dysfunction were associated with higher rates of adverse events.

Sedation-related outcomes in postoperative management of pediatric laryngotracheal reconstruction

ObjectiveExamine outcomes of varied postoperative sedation management in pediatric patients recovering from single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction. DesignRetrospective review of 34 patients treated with single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction from 2001 through 2011. SettingTertiary children's hospital. MethodsPatients were divided into 2 groups: those managed postoperatively with sedation, with or without paralysis (group 1), and those managed awake with narcotic pain medication as needed for primary management (group 2). Outcomes were measured as a function of sedation management. Outcomes investigated focused on those related to the success of the airway reconstruction, and those related to sedation management. ResultsOut of 68 cases of laryngotracheal reconstruction reviewed from 2001 to 2011, 34 were single stage reconstructions. Nineteen patients were sedated postoperatively (group 1) and fifteen patients were left awake (group 2). There were no significant differences between groups in airway-related outcomes, including risk of accidental decannulation, revision rates, and need for secondary airway procedures such as balloon dilation. Sedation-related outcomes, specifically focusing on differences in medical management, showed significant increases in rates of withdrawal (p<0.0001), nursing concerns of withdrawal (p<0.0001) and sedation level (p<0.0001), pulmonary complications (OR 7.7, p=0.008), and prolonged hospital stay due to withdrawal (p=0.0005) in patients managed with sedation with or without paralysis. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that duration of sedation was the primary risk factor for increased postoperative morbidity, while younger age, lower weight, and use of a posterior graft were also significant variables assessed. ConclusionAvoiding sedation as the standard for postoperative management of single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction airway patients leads to an overall decreased risk of morbidity without increasing risk of airway-specific morbidity. This is specifically as related to withdrawal, pulmonary complications, concerns about sedation level and prolonged hospital course, all of which increase significantly with increased level and duration of sedation.

Laryngotracheal reconstruction in children with subglottic stenosis

To study the effect of laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) in children with subglottic stenosis (SGS), and to discuss the indications and the risks of intraoperative and postoperative treatment of LTR. From September 2008 to February 2010, 5 children (4 girls and 1 boy, aged 4 to 6 years) were treated by LTR. Among the 5 children, there were 2 congenital SGS and 3 acquired SGS. One had mild grade III SGS, 3 had severe grade III SGS, and one had grade IV SGS. One child with mild III SGS was treated by single-stage LTR, and the rest four children were treated by double-stage LTR. The surgical technique consisted of cricoid lamina midline vertical incision, rib cartilage graft interposition and endotracheal tube (ETT) stenting for 2 to 3 weeks. Four children with grade III SGS were de-cannulated 3 months after operation, and the child with grade IV SGS got de-cannulated 6 months after operation. Of all children, rib cartilage graft grower well, and the size of subglottis were amplified by grade III SGS to grade I SGS, and grade IV SGS to grade II SGS. All children obtained stable airway. One child with grade IV SGS who had hoarseness got effective phonation during follow-up 2 years after operation. LTR is a safe and effective treatment for pediatric subglottic stenosis. The important factors of successful operation are correct assessment and evaluation of the severity and overall medical status and selection of suitable surgical techniques.

Single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction for the treatment of subglottic stenosis in children.

Summary Introduction: In recent decades, airway reconstruction has become the treatment of choice for subglottic stenosis (SGS) in children, which is performed in either single or multiple stages. However, there is evidence in the literature that single-stage surgery is more effective. Objective: To evaluate the success rate of single-stage laryngotracheoplasty (LTP) and cricotracheal resection (CTR) in patients that were treated in our hospital. Materials and Method: We performed a retrospective study of children undergoing laryngotracheal reconstruction. Results: Twenty-four children were included. The etiology of SGS was postintubation in 91.6% and congenital in 8.3%. One patient (4.2%) had grade 4 SGS, 17 (70.8%) presented with grade 3 SGS, 4 (16.6%) had grade 2 SGS, 1 (4.2%) had grade 3 SGS associated with glottic stenosis, and 1 (4.2%) had grade 3 SGS with tracheal stenosis. We performed 26 LTPs and 3 CTRs. Decannulation rates were 66% in the CTR procedures and 85.7% in the LTP procedures; the overall decannulation rate was 83.3%. All children presented with fever in the postoperative period, but were afebrile after the tube was removed. Conclusion: Our series showed a decannulation rate of 83.3%.

Laryngotracheal reconstruction with resorbable microplate buttressing

In patients undergoing laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR), malacic segments of trachea can pose challenges to successful reconstruction. Malacic segments may inadequately support cartilage grafts used in augmentation surgery, sometimes requiring cricotracheal or tracheal resections. We describe a novel technique of LTR with resorbable microplate buttressing of malacic lateral tracheal segments. Retrospective case series. Review of technique, treatment outcomes, and complications of seven children with subglottic stenosis and tracheomalacia requiring a microplate-augmented LTR technique. Seven infants ranging from 26 months to 9 years of age successfully underwent LTR for subglottic stenosis. Six children had a grade III subglottic stenosis. The seventh child had grade II subglottic stenosis, bilateral vocal fold paralysis, an elliptical cricoid, and an obstructing giant suprastomal fibroma. Five children underwent a double-stage LTR with resorbable microplates sutured bilaterally to support severely malacic lateral tracheal segments. A cricotracheal resection would not have been feasible in one child due to the resection length and inadequate tracheal mobilization. Two children underwent a single-stage LTR with unilateral application of a microplate. Six children were decannulated within 3 months and continue without airway symptoms or complications. One child, who is just over 2 months from reconstructive surgery, is being setup for decannulation. No complications were encountered. LTR with resorbable microplate buttressing of malacic lateral tracheal segments is technically feasible, safe, and can avoid more extensive surgery requiring tracheal resection. Further experience may support the use of this technique in challenging airway reconstructions.

Laryngotracheal reconstruction and cricotracheal resection in children: Recent experience at Great Ormond Street Hospital

BackgroundSurgery for paediatric airway stenosis is constantly evolving. Surgery is the primary treatment modality via either an open or endoscopic approach. The objective of this study was to review the results of laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) and cricotracheal resection (CTR) procedures performed at Great Ormond Street Hospital over the past 10 years. MethodsAll patients who underwent open airway reconstruction surgery from January 2000 to December 2010 were included in this study. Patients treated entirely endoscopically were excluded. The data was collected using the electronic operating theatre database and the discharge summary database. ResultsComplete data was available for 199 patients who underwent open airway reconstruction from January 2000 to December 2010. The procedures included single stage LTR (57, 28.6%), two stage LTR (115, 57.7%), single-stage stomal reconstruction (14), single-stage CTR (8) and two-stage CTR (5). The diagnoses at the initial airway endoscopy were laryngeal web (22), subglottic stenosis (151), posterior glottic stenosis (9), suprastomal collapse (15), supraglottic stenosis (1) and tracheal stenosis (1). For those with subglottic stenosis, the stenosis was grade 1 in 1 patient, grade 2 in 26 patients, grade 3 in 117 patients and grade 4 in 6 patients. At the completion of intervention 175/199 (87.9%) patients reported improvement in their symptoms. Amongst the subglottic stenosis group, post LTR success was achieved in 100% with grade 1 stenosis, 92.3% with grade 2 stenosis, 88.1% in grade 3 stenosis and 83.3% in grade 4 stenosis. Of the two-stage LTR procedures, 100/115 (86.9%) had their tracheostomy removed and 15/115 (13.1%) have failed decannulation. Of the single-stage LTR group, 50/57 (87.7%) patients were better both on airway examination and symptomatically postoperatively. Of the single-stage stomal reconstruction group, 13/14 (92.8%) were better symptomatically and on airway examination. Patients who underwent single-stage CTR had a better airway on examination and were symptomatically improved in all cases (8/8). For the patients who underwent two stage CTR, the tracheostomy was removed in 3/5 (60%) and retained in 2/5 (40%). For the whole group, 15/199 (7.5%) patients underwent a revision LTR. On further analysis, revision LTR was required in 4/57 (7.1%) single-stage LTR, 9/115 (7.8%) two-stage LTR, 1/5 (20%) two-stage CTR and 1/8 (12.5%) single-stage CTR. In this study complications occurred in 13/199 (6.5%). ConclusionsSubglottic stenosis in children needs to be approached on the basis of the nature and severity of stenosis and the individual patient's general health. Good outcomes are achieved with both LTR and CTR. Good results are obtained both with single-stage and two-stage LTR, but restenosis remains a problem. An individual approach is required for treatment of paediatric airway stenosis to achieve good final outcomes. The overall success rate has increased only marginally in our institution over the last 20 years.

Laryngotracheal reconstruction in infants and children: Are single-stage anterior and posterior grafts a reliable intervention at all pediatric hospitals?

Objective To review outcomes of pediatric laryngotracheal stenosis treated by single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts and compare decannulation rate for single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with rates published at larger (>200 beds) pediatric tertiary care hospitals. Methods A 4-year retrospective chart review (2004–2008) of all patients undergoing procedures coded with 2008 CPT codes 31582 (laryngoplasty for laryngeal stenosis with graft or core mold, including tracheotomy) and 31587 (laryngoplasty, cricoid split) for a pediatric, tertiary-care hospital. Interventions were single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts, and the main outcome measure was the decannulation rate after single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction. Results We identified 44 patients with subglottic stenosis, of whom 13 underwent single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts. The mean age at surgery was 2.2 years (range, 5 months to 4 years). Twelve of 13 children had Cotton-Myer grade III stenosis. Ninety-two percent (12 of 13) of children remain decannulated. The mean follow up was 52 months. Conclusions Single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with anterior and posterior cartilage grafts appears to be a safe and effective technique for managing patients with high-grade subglottic stenosis at intermediate size children's hospitals. Our overall decannulation rate of 92% compares favorably to that reported in the literature (84–96%).

Single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction using endoscopic posterior grafting in isolated posterior glottic stenosis in children – How we do it

Objective Posterior glottic stenosis is a well recognised though rare condition. A wide range of treatment options have been proposed including endoscopic laser techniques and open techniques with grafting. The objective of this study was to present our experience of single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with endoscopic technique of placement of posterior graft in isolated posterior glottic stenosis. Methods This study was conducted at the Department of Paediatric Otolaryngology at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London. The senior authors (ALT, DMA) were involved in the management of two children with isolated posterior glottic stenosis operated on as single stage reconstruction. Results The two children in this small series had isolated posterior glottic stenosis. The aetiology in both the cases was previous prolonged intubation. Both patients underwent a successful placement of the posterior graft endoscopically, though it was a challenging task because of space constraints. None of these children required an intra-operative or post-operative tracheostomy. There were no complications in these patients. At follow up endoscopic examinations, both these patients have had their airway widened successfully. Conclusion Single stage laryngotracheal reconstruction with endoscopic placement of posterior graft in cases with isolated posterior glottic stenosis is a good alternative to open surgical techniques, although is technically a challenging procedure.

Single‐stage laryngotracheal reconstruction using bioabsorbable miniplates

The goal is to review the efficacy and safety of bioabsorbable miniplates as an alternative to autologous grafts in single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction for subglottic stenosis. : Case series. A standard approach to the laryngotracheal complex is performed. The cricoid cartilage and first two tracheal rings are incised vertically, including the tracheostoma if present. A poly-L-lactic-acid-polyglycolic-acid bioabsorbable miniplate was cut to an approximate 1- to 1.5-cm length and 3- to 4-mm width, and placed over the cricoid defect. This plate was sutured in place using 4-0 undyed nylon sutures, securing the plate at each end to the cricoid cartilage. Care was taken to place these sutures submucosally in the tracheal lumen. If there was concern for suprastomal collapse, additional plates were placed inferiorly. The patient was taken back to the intensive care unit with a penrose drain in place and left sedated and intubated for 1 week and then re-evaluated in the operating room. The procedure has been performed on 10 patients. All patients had a well-healed and fully mucosalized anterior tracheal wall with no evidence of plate or suture exposure at the time of extubation. There were no postoperative complications directly attributable to the use of the absorbable plate. All patients were successfully decannulated at the time of discharge. Long-term follow-up ranges from 14 to 63 months. No patients have required revision laryngotracheal reconstruction or repeat tracheostomy. This study demonstrates that the use of bioabsorbable plates in select patients is a safe and effective alternative to the use of autologous cartilage grafts for single-stage laryngotracheal reconstruction for anterior subglottic stenosis. Donor site morbidity is eliminated, and operative time is decreased.