Quiste subglótico adquirido como causa inhabitual de estridor en pediatría. Revisión de la literatura a propósito de un caso / Subglottic cyst as an unusual cause of stridor in pediatric patients. Literature review and case report

El estridor corresponde a un signo altamente frecuente, sin embargo, es heterogéneo e inespecífico. Existen múltiples causas conocidas y manejadas por el otorrinolaringólogo. Los quistes subglóticos constituyen una entidad infrecuente de estridor en pediatría, siendo la población más frecuentemente afectada, niños con antecedentes de prematurez e intubación por períodos prolongados. Su manifestación clínica es variada, desde cuadros asintomáticos a pacientes con riesgo inminente de pérdida de la vía aérea. El diagnóstico suele ser tras largos períodos desde el antecedente de intubación. Su resolución suele ser quirúrgica, teniendo como principal complicación asociada la estenosis subglótica y las recurrencias. Se presenta el caso de una preescolar con un episodio de estridor y distrés respiratorio rápidamente progresivos, cuyo diagnóstico intraoperatorio resultó en quistes subglóticos submucosos bilaterales, que requirieron resolución quirúrgica.

Stridor corresponds to a highly frequent sign; however, it is heterogeneous and nonspecific. There are multiple causes that are widely known and managed by the otorhinolaryngolo-gist. Subglottic cysts are an infrequent entity of stridor in pediatric patients, where the most frequently affected population are childrens with history of prematurity and intubation for long periods. It's clinical manifestations are wide, from asymptomatic cases to patients with imminent risk of airway loss. Their manifestation its often after long periods after the moment of intubation. The management often involves surgery, and the main associated complication is subglottic stenosis and recurrences. We present the case of a preschool girl with an episode of rapidly progressive stridor and respiratory distress; whose intraoperative diagnosis was bilateral subglottic submucosal cysts that required surgical resolution.

Consensus recommendations on the evaluation and treatment of laryngotracheal anomalies in infants and young children / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Infants with laryngotracheal anomalies are clinically manifested as stridor or noisy breathing, choking, hoarseness, feeding difficulties, and cyanotic spells, followed by developmental and growth retardation and other health issues; in severe cases, patients may present with severe dyspnea, which is associated with high mortality. A timely diagnosis as well as appropriate strategy for laryngotracheal anomalies is still challenging for pediatric otolaryngologists. This consensus statement, evolved from expert opinion by the members of the Pediatric Otorhinolaryngology Professional Committee of the Pediatrician Branch of the Chinese Medical Doctor Association, provides comprehensive recommendations and standardized guidance for otolaryngologists who manage infants and young children with laryngotracheal anomalies in evaluation and treatment based on symptomatology, physical and laboratory examinations.

Analysis of cases of laryngeal airway diseases in infants / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective:To analyze the clinical data of laryngeal airway diseases in infants and provide reference for the standardized diagnosis and treatment of the disease. Methods:From June 2022 to August 2023, analyze the clinical data of 4 cases of children with laryngeal airway diseases recently admitted to Department of Otolaryngology, Fuzhou Children's Hospital of Fujian Province, and summarize the experience and lessons of diagnosis and treatment by consulting relevant literature. Results:Three cases had symptoms such as laryngeal wheezing, dyspnea, backward growth and development, etc. After electronic laryngoscopy, the first case was diagnosed with laryngeal softening （severe, type Ⅱ）, and the angular incision was performed. While cases 2, 3 diagnosed with case 2 and 3 were diagnosed with laryngeal cyst and underwent laryngeal cyst resection. All three cases underwent low-temperature plasma surgery under visual laryngoscope, and the symptoms were relieved after operation. Case 4 was laryngeal wheezing and dyspnea after extubation under general anesthesia. The electronic laryngoscopy showeded early stage of globetic stenosis, and endoscopic pseudomembrane clamping was performed, and the postoperative symptoms were relieved. Conclusion:Infants and young children with laryngeal airway diseases should pay attention to the early symptoms and be diagnosed by electronic laryngoscopy as soon as possible. With good curative effect and few complications, low-temperature plasma surgery under visual laryngoscope is recommended. The formation of pseudomembrane under the gluteal caused by tracheal intubation causes rapid onset and rapid development. The pseudomembrane extraction by clamping is convenient and fast, with good curative effect.

Aplicaciones diagnósticas y terapéuticas del videolaringoscopio C-MAC® en cirugía de vía aérea pediátrica / Diagnostic and therapeutic applications of the C-MAC® videolaryngoscope in pediatric airway surgery

Resumen La patología quirúrgica de la vía aérea pediátrica suele ser desafiante. Una visualización adecuada de las estructuras faríngeas y laríngeas es absolutamente necesaria para su correcto diagnóstico y tratamiento. Distintos instrumentos, como laringoscopios de intubación, laringoscopios de suspensión y broncoscopios flexibles o rígidos, permiten acceder a la vía aérea. Muchas veces se requiere el uso de una combinación de ellos para abordar con éxito estos problemas. En esta revisión, discutimos el uso de videolaringoscopios en el manejo de condiciones como estenosis subglótica, lesiones de vía aérea y cuerpos extraños. Aunque los anestesiólogos los utilizan frecuentemente para intubaciones difíciles debido a su cámara incorporada que facilita la visión de las estructuras laríngeas, existen escasos informes sobre su uso por cirujanos de vía aérea. Las ventajas sobre la laringoscopía convencional incluyen una mejor visualización, la capacidad de supervisar el procedimiento a través de una pantalla, una mejor ergonomía, que es portátil y que permite una rápida inserción de diferentes instrumentos. Consideramos que es particularmente útil en la dilatación de estenosis subglóticas. Presentamos un método fácil, barato y reproducible para realizarla.

Abstract Surgical pediatric airway diseases are often challenging, and an adequate visualization of pharyngeal and laryngeal structures is absolutely necessary for their correct diagnosis and treatment. Different instruments such as intubation laryngoscopes, suspension laryngoscopes and flexible and rigid bronchoscopes allow for access to the airway, and using a combination of them, is usually required to successfully address these problems. In this review, we discuss the use of videolaryngoscopes in the management of conditions such as subglottic stenosis, airway lesions and foreign bodies. Although commonly used by anesthesiologists for difficult intubations because of their built-in cameras that facilitate the view of laryngeal structures, there are scarce reports on its use by airway surgeons. Advantages over standard laryngoscopy include improved visualization and the ability to supervise the procedure through a screen. We also consider that it allows for improved ergonomics, portability and fast insertion of different instruments. We have found it to be particularly useful in subglottic stenosis dilation and an easy, cheap and reproducible method is also presented.

Slide laryngotracheoplasty for treating congenital subglottic stenosis: a case report and follow-up / 中华实用儿科临床杂志

The data of a case of congenital subglottic stenosis (C-SGS) who underwent slide laryngotracheoplasty in the Center for Respiratory Intervention, Children′s Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University in December 2021 was analyzed retrospectively.The patient was a girl aged 2 months and 15 days.She visited the hospital 23 days after tracheotomy due to dyspnea for more than 2 months.The bronchoscopy and annular cartilage B ultrasound results suggested subglottic stenosis and no scar hyperplasia.Based on the medical history, the child was diagnosed with C-SGS.Slide laryngotracheoplasty was performed 2 weeks after admission, and the tracheotomy tube was removed after surgery.The child was followed up 2 months after surgery, and she recovered well with no dyspnea.The study results suggest that early and safe slide laryngotracheoplasty after definite diagnosis can provide immediate and sufficient airway space for C-SGS patients, and protect their voice and swallowing function.

El niño con estridor persistente / The child with persistent stridor

El estridor es un ruido respiratorio anormal generado por obstrucción o colapso de la vía aérea laringotraqueal, de manera aguda o de evolución crónica. Existen distintas causas tanto congénitas como adquiridas capaces de producir dificultad respiratoria, que puede llegar a ser grave y con potencial riesgo vital. El diagnóstico clínico del paciente con estridor persistente debe ser complementado con un estudio endoscópico de la vía aérea y en ocasiones con imágenes, para intentar determinar el o los sitios comprometidos y posibles malformaciones asociadas. La indicación de tratamiento debe ser individualizada, considerando el estado general del paciente, las etiologías responsables, el im pacto sobre la respiración y la deglución, el pronóstico y la capacidad técnica del equipo tratante, entre otras. Las alternativas pueden incluir observación, medidas no farmacológicas, medicamentos locales o sistémicos, procedimientos endoscópicos, cirugías abiertas, o bien la instalación de una traqueostomía de manera temporal o como manejo definitivo. El objetivo de esta revisión es entregar un adecuado conocimiento de la fisiopatología y la etiopatogenia del estridor pediátrico persistente, fundamental para el correcto manejo de estos pacientes complejos, que debiera realizarse idealmente en un contexto multidisciplinario.

Stridor is an abnormal respiratory sound caused by obstruction or collapse of the laryngotracheal airway, either acutely or chronically. There are different causes, both congenital and acquired, that can produce shortness of breath which may be severe and potentially life-threatening. The clini cal diagnosis must be complemented with an endoscopic airway assessment and sometimes with imaging, to try to determine the areas involved and possible associated malformations. Treatment should be individualized, considering the patient's overall condition, stridor etiology, its impact on breathing and swallowing, prognosis, and technical capacity of the managing team, among others. Alternatives may include observation, non-pharmacological measures, local or systemic medications, endoscopic and open surgeries, or a temporary or long-term tracheostomy. A thorough understan ding of the pathophysiology and etiopathogenesis of persistent pediatric stridor is essential for the correct management of these complex patients, ideally in a multidisciplinary manner.

Pediatric airway reconstruction: results after implementation of an airway team in Brazil / Reconstrução de vias aéreas pediátricas: resultados após a implantação de uma equipe de vias aéreas no Brasil

Abstract Introduction Since development of pediatric intensive care units, children have increasingly and appropriately been treated for complex surgical conditions such as laryngotracheal stenosis. Building coordinated airway teams to achieve acceptable results is still a challenge. Objective To describe patient demographics and surgical outcomes during the first 8 years of a pediatric airway reconstruction team. Methods Retrospective chart review of children submitted to open airway reconstruction in a tertiary university healthcare facility during the first eight years of an airway team formation. Results In the past 8 years 43 children underwent 52 open airway reconstructions. The median age at surgery was 4.1 years of age. Over half of the children (55.8%) had at least one comorbidity and over 80% presented Grade III and Grade IV subglottic stenosis. Other airway anomalies occurred in 34.8% of the cases. Surgeries performed were: partial and extended cricotracheal resections in 50% and laryngotracheoplasty with anterior and/or posterior grafts in 50%. Postoperative dilatation was needed in 34.15% of the patients. Total decannulation rate in this population during the 8-year period was 86% with 72% being decannulated after the first procedure. Average follow-up was 13.6 months. Initial grade of stenosis was predictive of success for the first surgery (p = 0.0085), 7 children were submitted to salvage surgeries. Children with comorbidities had 2.5 greater odds (95% CI 1.2-4.9, p = 0.0067) of unsuccessful surgery. Age at first surgery and presence of other airway anomalies were not significantly associated with success. Conclusions The overall success rate was 86%. Failures were associated with higher grades of stenosis and presence of comorbidities, but not with patient age or concomitant airway anomalies.

Resumo Introdução: Com o desenvolvimento de unidades de terapia intensiva pediátrica, o tratamento de crianças para situações cirúrgicas complexas, como a estenose laringotraqueal, tem sido cada vez mais adequado. Montar equipes coordenadas de via aérea para alcançar resultados aceitáveis ainda é um desafio. Objetivo: Descrever os dados demográficos e os resultados cirúrgicos dos pacientes durante os primeiros oito anos de uma equipe de reconstrução de via aérea pediátrica. Método: Revisão retrospectiva de prontuários de crianças submetidas à reconstrução aberta de via aérea em uma unidade de saúde universitária de nível terciário durante os primeiros oito anos de desenvolvimento de uma equipe de vias aéreas. Resultados: Nos últimos 8 anos, 43 crianças foram submetidas a 52 reconstruções abertas de vias aéreas. A mediana de idade na cirurgia foi de 4,1 anos. Mais da metade das crianças (55,8%) apresentavam pelo menos uma comorbidade e mais de 80% apresentavam estenose subglótica Grau III e Grau IV. Outras anomalias das vias aéreas ocorreram em 34,8% dos casos. As cirurgias feitas foram: ressecções cricotraqueais parciais e estendidas em 50% e laringotraqueoplastia com enxertos anterior e/ou posterior em 50%. A dilatação pós-operatória foi necessária em 34,15% dos pacientes. A taxa de decanulação total nesta população durante o período de 8 anos foi de 86%, com 72% dos pacientes decanulados após o primeiro procedimento. O seguimento médio foi de 13,6 meses. O grau inicial de estenose foi preditivo de sucesso para a primeira cirurgia (p = 0,0085), 7 crianças foram submetidas a cirurgias de resgate. Crianças com comorbidades apresentaram uma probabilidade 2,5 vezes maior (IC95% 1,2-4,9, p = 0,0067) de cirurgias sem sucesso. A idade na primeira cirurgia e a presença de outras anomalias das vias aéreas não foram significantemente associadas ao sucesso. Conclusões: A taxa global de sucesso foi de 86%. As falhas foram associadas a graus maiores de estenose e a presença de comorbidades, mas não com a idade do paciente ou anomalias concomitantes das vias aéreas.

Accuracy of stridor-based diagnosis of post-intubation subglottic stenosis in pediatric patients / Precisão do diagnóstico de estenose subglótica pós-intubação com base em estridorem pacientes pediátricos

Abstract Objective To assess the accuracy of stridor in comparison to endoscopic examination for diagnosis of pediatric post-intubation subglottic stenosis. Method Children who required endotracheal intubation for >24 h were included in this prospective cohort study. Children were monitored daily and underwent flexible fiberoptic laryngoscopy after extubation. Those with moderate-to-severe abnormalities underwent another examination 7-10 days later. If lesions persisted or symptoms developed, laryngoscopy under general anesthesia was performed. Patients were assessed daily for stridor after extubation. Results A total of 187 children were included. The incidence of post-extubation stridor was 44.38%. Stridor had a sensitivity of 77.78% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 51.9-92.6) and specificity of 59.18% (95% CI: 51.3-66.6) in detecting subglottic stenosis. The positive predictive value was 16.87% (95% CI: 9.8-27.1), and the negative predictive value was 96.15% (95% CI: 89.9-98.8). Stridor persisting longer than 72 h or starting more than 72 h post-extubation had a sensitivity of 66.67% (95% CI: 41.2-85.6), specificity of 89.1% (95% CI: 83.1-93.2), positive predictive value of 40.0% (95% CI: 23.2-59.3), and negative predictive value of 96.07% (95% CI: 91.3-98.4). The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 0.78 (95% CI: 0.65-0.91). Conclusions Absence of stridor was appropriate to rule out post-intubation subglottic stenosis. The specificity of this criterion improved when stridor persisted longer than 72 h or started more than 72 h post-extubation. Thus, endoscopy under general anesthesia can be used to confirm subglottic stenosis only in patients who develop or persist with stridor for more than 72 h following extubation.

Resumo Objetivo Analisar a precisão do estridor em comparação com o exame endoscópico no diagnóstico de estenose subglótica pós-intubação em crianças. Método Foram incluídas neste estudo de coorte prospectivo crianças que necessitaram de intubação endotraqueal por mais de 24 horas. Elas foram monitoradas diariamente e submetidas à nasofibrolaringoscopia flexível após a extubação. As crianças com anomalias moderadas foram submetidas a outro exame sete a 10 dias depois. Caso as lesões persistissem ou os sintomas evoluíssem, a laringoscopia era realizada com anestesia geral. Os pacientes foram avaliados diariamente quanto ao estridor após a extubação. Resultados Participaram 187 crianças. A incidência de estridor após a intubação foi de 44,38%. O estridor apresentou uma sensibilidade de 77,78% (intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC]: 51,9-92,6) e especificidade de 59,18% (IC: 51,3-66,6) na detecção de SGS. O valor preditivo positivo foi de 16,87% (IC: 9,8-27,1) e o valor preditivo negativo (VPN) foi de 96,15% (IC: 89,9-98,8). O estridor que persistiu por mais de 72 horas ou que começou 72 horas após a extubação teve uma sensibilidade de 66,67% (IC: 41,2-85,6), especificidade de 89,1% (IC: 83,1-93,2), valor preditivo positivo de 40,0% (IC: 23,2-59,3) e valor preditivo negativo de 96,07% (IC: 91,3-98,4). A área sob a curva de característica de operação do receptor (ROC) foi de 0,78 (IC: 0,65-0,91). Conclusões A ausência de estridor foi adequada para descartar a estenose subglótica pós-intubação. A especificidade desse critério melhorou quando o estridor perdurou por mais de 72 horas ou começou mais de 72 horas após a extubação. Assim, a endoscopia com anestesia geral pode ser utilizada para confirmar a estenose subglótica somente em pacientes que desenvolveram ou continuaram com estridor por mais de 72 horas após a extubação.

Diagnosis and treatment of 15 cases of idiopathic subglottic stenosis / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

The aim of this study is to o explore the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of idiopathic subglottic stenosis （ISS） The clinical data of 15 patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis treated in our department were analyzed retrospectively. The degree of stenosis was classified by the Cotton Airway grading system of Myer, with 8 cases of gradeⅡ, 4 cases of grade Ⅲ and 3 cases of grade Ⅳ. The time of follow-up of HTSS was 0.5-10 years. All 15 patients were successfully extubated without asphyxia, decannulation and wound nonunion. For patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis in the non-progressive stage, active surgical treatment strategy should be adopted and treated individually. The prognosis is satisfactory.

Participation of Clinical Pharmacists in Pharmaceutical Care for a Child with Subglottic Talaromyces marneffei Infection / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE：To investigate the role of clinical pharmacists on the individualized treatment of children with subglottic Talaromyces marneffei infection. METHODS ：The clinical pharmacists participated in the medication procedure for a case of subglottic T. marneffei infection child . The clinical pharmacists suggested that Budesonide suspension for inhalation should be stopped，according to the subglottic infection pathogen type （T. marneffei ）；Itraconazole oral solution should be chosen and taken orally 2.5 mg/kg，q12 h，and indicators as liver function ，blood potassium should be monitored regularly. However ，as Itraconazole oral solution needed to be applied for temporary purchase ，Itraconazole capsules 2.5 mg/kg，q12 h，p.o.，was administrated temporarily ；clinical pharmacists suggested that Itraconazole capsules should be taken after meal ，and the doctor changed the feeding mode of milk from q 4 h to continuous pumping. After purchased ，Itraconazole oral solution was used instead 2.5 mg/kg，q12 h in fasting state ，and according the clinical pharmacist ’s suggestion ，the doctor changed the nursing method to q 4 h milk pumping. After purchasing and using oral solution instead ，clinical pharmacists suggested taking it at fasting state ；according to the monitoring results and target range （0.5-1 mg/L），oral dose of Itraconazole oral solution was finally adjusted to 8.3 mg/kg， q12 h. In view of the diarrhea during the treatment ，clinical pharmacists suggested to continue the original treatment after considering the effectiveness and importance of the treatment ；at the same time ，discharge medication education should be carried out. RESULTS ： The doctors adopted the suggestions of the clinical pharmacists. The child got a clinical improvement and was discharged after 48 days. CONCLUSIONS ：Clinical pharmacists participate in the treatment of children with T. marneffei infection，timely assist physicians to adjust and improve the medication regimen ，which improve the efficacy and safety of medication for children.

Diagnosis and treatment of 15 cases of idiopathic subglottic stenosis / 临床耳鼻咽喉头颈外科杂志

Objective@#The aim of this study is to o explore the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of idiopathic subglottic stenosis （ISS） @*Method@#The clinical data of 15 patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis treated in our department were analyzed retrospectively. The degree of stenosis was classified by the Cotton Airway grading system of Myer, with 8 cases of gradeⅡ, 4 cases of grade Ⅲ and 3 cases of grade Ⅳ. @*Result@#The time of follow-up of HTSS was 0.5-10 years. All 15 patients were successfully extubated without asphyxia, decannulation and wound nonunion. @*Conclusion@#For patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis in the non-progressive stage, active surgical treatment strategy should be adopted and treated individually. The prognosis is satisfactory.

Dilatación precoz de estenosis subglótica adquirida posintubación utilizando tubos endotraqueales / Early dilatation of acquired post-intubation subglottic stenosis using endotracheal tubes

RESUMEN Introducción: La estenosis subglótica adquirida es una causa importante de estridor persistente después de una intubación endotraqueal. El diagnóstico y manejo tempranos pueden llevar a procedimientos menos invasivos con altas tasas de éxito. Si las lesiones agudas posintubación evolucionan hacia una estenosis, las dilataciones endoscópicas usando instrumentos romos o balones podrían lograr restablecer un lumen adecuado. Los balones son efectivos, pero caros y obstruyen la vía respiratoria al momento de la dilatación. Objetivo: Presentar nuestra experiencia con la dilatación progresiva de estenosis subglótica adquirida posintubación utilizando tubos endotraqueales. Material y método: Revisión retrospectiva de las dilataciones realizadas como tratamiento primario en estenosis subglótica pediátrica adquirida. Resultados: Se incluyeron 16 pacientes con estenosis de grados I a III, con una edad promedio de 2 años y 4 meses. El tiempo promedio de intubación fue de 6,6 días. El número de procedimientos promedio fue de 2, con un rango de 1 a 6. El éxito clínico se logró en todos los pacientes, con resolución de los síntomas respiratorios y evitando la traqueostomía. No hubo complicaciones ni mortalidad asociadas. Conclusión: En esta cohorte, la dilatación subglótica con tubos endotraqueales fue eficaz y segura. Estos están ampliamente disponibles y permiten ventilar al paciente mientras se realiza el procedimiento.

ABSTRACT Introduction: Acquired post-intubation subglottic stenosis is one of the most important complications causing persistent stridor after endotracheal intubation. Early diagnosis and management can lead to less-invasive procedures with high success rates. If the acute post-intubation injuries progress into a stenosis, endoscopic dilatations can be attempted to reestablish an adequate lumen. These can be performed using blunt instrument or balloons. Balloons are effective but expensive, and obstruct the airway while dilatating. Aim: Present our experience with progressive blunt dilatation of acquired post-intubation subglottic stenosis using endotracheal tubes. Material and method: Retrospective chart review of dilatations performed as the primary treatment in early acquired pediatric subglottic stenosis. Results: 16 patients with grades I to III stenosis were included. Average age was 2 years 4 months, and average intubation time was 6.6 days. The number of procedures ranged between 1 and 6, with a mean of 2. Clinical success was achieved in all patients, with resolution of respiratory symptoms and avoidance of tracheostomy. There were no complications or mortality. Conclusion: In this cohort, subglottic dilatation using endotracheal tubes was effective and safe. Endotracheal tubes are easily available and allow to ventilate the patient while performing the procedure.

Advanced laryngotracheal stenosis patients in a tertiary provincial government hospital: A prospective case series

@#<p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>OBJECTIVE:</strong> To describe the clinical profiles, interventions, and surgical outcomes of patients with advanced (grade III and IV) laryngotracheal stenosis prospectively seen over a 2-year period.  </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>METHODS:</strong></p><p style="text-align: justify;">           <strong>Design:</strong>           Prospective Case Series</p><p style="text-align: justify;">          <strong>Setting:</strong>           Tertiary Provincial Government Hospital</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>          Participants:</strong>  Five (5) patients with advanced laryngotracheal stenosis confirmed by laryngoscopy and/or tracheoscopy.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>RESULTS:</strong> Five (5) patients (4 males, 1 female), aged 23 to 31years (mean 27-years-old) diagnosed with advanced laryngotracheal stenosis between June 2016 to June 2018 were included in this series. Four resulted from prolonged intubation (14 - 60 days) while one had a prolonged tracheotomy (13 years). Presentations of stenosis included dyspnea on extubation attempt (n=3), failure to extubate (n=1) and failure to decannulate tracheotomy (n=1). Stenosis length was 3 cm in two, and 1.5 cm in three. Of the five (5) patients, three had grade IV stenosis while two had grade III stenosis based on the Cotton-Myer Classification System. Two of those with grade IV stenosis and both patients with grade III stenosis had undergone prolonged intubation. The stenosis involved the subglottis in three, and combined subglottic and tracheal stenosis in two. Prolonged intubation was present in all three with subglottic stenosis, and in one of the two with combined subglottic and tracheal stenosis. Two patients underwent open surgical approaches while three underwent endoscopic dilatation procedures. Four patients were successfully decannulated while one is still on tracheostomy. None of them had post-operative complications.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><strong>CONCLUSION:</strong>  Advanced laryngotracheal stenosis is a challenging entity that results from heterogenous causes. Categorizing stenosis and measuring stenosis length may help in treatment planning and predicting surgical outcome.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"> </p>

Tratamiento endoscópico de la estenosis subglótica adquirida en los niños: factores predictores del éxito / Endoscopic treatment of acquired subglottic stenosis in children: Predictors of success

La estenosis subglótica es una enfermedad congènita o adquirida caracterizada por el estrechamiento de la vía aérea desde las cuerdas vocales hasta el borde inferior del cartílago cricoides. Es una de las principales causas de estridor y dificultad respiratoria en los niños. Más del 90 % de las estenosis laríngeas son adquiridas debido a la intubación endotraqueal prolongada. El manejo de la estenosis subglótica en pediatría es complejo y puede ser influenciado por distintos factores que pueden afectar el resultado final. El tratamiento puede involucrar procedimientos endoscópicos y/o cirugías abiertas. Se describe nuestra experiencia con 35 pacientes con estenosis subglótica adquirida tratados endoscópicamente con dilatación rígida y se identifican potenciales factores predictores del éxito de esta técnica.

Subglottic stenosis is a congenital or acquired disease characterized by the narrowing of the airways, from the vocal cords to the lower border of the cricoid cartilage. It is one of the main causes of stridor and respiratory distress in children. More than 90 % of laryngeal stenoses are acquired due to prolonged endotracheal intubation. The pediatric management of subglottic stenosis is complex and may be affected by different factors that have an impact on the final outcome. Treatment may involve endoscopic procedures and/or open surgeries. Here we describe our experience in 35 patients with acquired subglottic stenosis who underwent endoscopic treatment with rigid dilation and identify the potential predictors of success of this technique.

Airway reconstruction: review of an approach to the advanced-stage laryngotracheal stenosis / Reconstrução de via aérea: revisão de uma abordagem à estenose laringotraqueal em estágio avançado

Abstract Introduction: The management of laryngotracheal stenosis is complex and is influenced by multiple factors that can affect the ultimate outcome. Advanced lesions represent a special challenge to the treating surgeon to find the best remedying technique. Objective: To review the efficacy of our surgical reconstructive approach in managing advanced-stage laryngotracheal stenosis treated at a tertiary medical center. Methods: A retrospective review of all patients that underwent open laryngotracheal repair/reconstruction by the senior author between 2002 and 2014. Patients with mild/moderate stenosis (e.g. stage 1 or 2), or those who had an open reconstructive procedure prior to referral, were excluded. Patients who had only endoscopic treatment (e.g. laser, balloon dilatation) and were not subjected to an open reconstructive procedure at our institution, were not included in this study. Variables studied included patient demographics, clinical presentation, etiology of the laryngotracheal pathology, the location of stenosis, the stage of stenosis, the type of corrective or reconstructive procedure performed with the type of graft used (where applicable), the type and duration of stent used, the post-reconstruction complications, and the duration of follow-up. Outcome measures included decannulation rate, total number of reconstructive surgeries needed to achieve decannulation, and the number of post-operative endoscopies needed to reach a safe patent airway. Results: Twenty five patients were included, aged 0.5 months to 45 years (mean 13.5 years, median 15 years) with 16 males and 9 females. Seventeen patients (68%) were younger than 18 years. Most patients presented with stridor, failure of decannulation, or respiratory distress. Majority had acquired etiology for their stenosis with only 24% having a congenital pathology. Thirty-two reconstructive procedures were performed resulting in decannulating 24 patients (96%), with 15/17 (88%) pediatric patients and 5/8 (62.5%) adult patients requiring only a single reconstructive procedure. Cartilage grafts were mostly used in children (84% vs. 38%) and stents were mostly silicone made, followed by endotracheal tubes. The number of endoscopies required ranged from 1 to 7 (mean 3). More co-morbidities existed in young children, resulting in failure to decannulate one patient. Adult patients had more complex pathologies requiring multiple procedures to achieve decannulation, with grafting less efficacious than in younger patients. The pediatric patients had double the incidence of granulation tissue compared to adults. The decannulated patients remained asymptomatic at a mean follow-up of 50.5 months. Conclusion: The review of our approach to open airway repair/reconstruction showed its efficacy in advanced-stage laryngotracheal stenosis. Good knowledge of a variety of reconstructive techniques is important to achieve good results in a variety of age groups.

Resumo Introdução: A conduta da estenose laringotraqueal é complexa e é influenciada por vários fatores que podem afetar o resultado final. Lesões em estágio avançado representam um desafio especial para o cirurgião encontrar a melhor técnica de tratamento. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia de nossa abordagem de reconstrução cirúrgica no tratamento de estenose laringotraqueal em estágio avançado em um centro médico terciário. Método: Revisão retrospectiva de todos os pacientes submetidos a tratamento cirúrgico/reconstrução laringotraqueal aberta pelo autor principal, entre 2002 e 2014. Os pacientes com estenose leve (por exemplo, estágio 1 ou 2) ou aqueles submetidos a procedimento de reconstrução aberta antes da indicação foram excluídos. Pacientes que tinham sido submetidos somente a tratamento endoscópico (por exemplo, laser, dilatação por balão) e não haviam sido submetidos a procedimento de reconstrução aberta em nossa instituição não foram incluídos. As variáveis estudadas incluíram dados demográficos dos pacientes, apresentação clínica, etiologia da doença laringotraqueal, local da estenose, estágio da estenose, o tipo de procedimento corretivo ou reconstrutor feito com o tipo de enxerto usado (onde aplicável), tipo e duração do stent usado, complicações pós-reconstrução e duração do seguimento. Os resultados incluíram taxas de decanulação, número total de cirurgias reconstrutoras necessárias para possibilitar a decanulação e o número de endoscopias pós-operatórias necessárias para obter uma via aérea patente e segura. Resultados: Vinte e cinco pacientes foram incluídos, com 0,5 meses a 45 anos (média de 13,5, mediana de 15) com 16 homens e nove mulheres. Dezessete pacientes (68%) eram menores de 18 anos. A maioria dos pacientes apresentava estridor, falha de decanulação ou desconforto respiratório. A maioria das estenoses era adquirida, enquanto apenas 24% apresentavam causa congênita. Trinta e dois procedimentos reconstrutores foram feitos, resultaram em decanulação de 24 pacientes (96%), com 15/17 (88%) pacientes pediátricos e 5/8 pacientes (62,5%) adultos que necessitaram de apenas um único procedimento reconstrutor. Enxertos de cartilagem foram usados principalmente em crianças (84% vs. 38%) e a maioria dos stents era feita principalmente de silicone, seguido por tubo endotraqueal. O número de endoscopias necessárias variou de um a sete (média de três). Mais comorbidades foram observadas em crianças pequenas, o que resultou em falha de decanulação em um paciente. Pacientes adultos apresentavam doenças mais complexas que requereram vários procedimentos para decanulação, com enxertos menos eficazes do que em pacientes mais jovens. Os pacientes pediátricos apresentaram o dobro da incidência de tecido de granulação em comparação com os adultos. Os pacientes decanulados permaneceram assintomáticos em um seguimento médio de 50,5 meses. Conclusão: A revisão da nossa abordagem para tratamento cirúrgico/reconstrução aberta das vias aéreas demonstrou eficácia na estenose laringotraqueal em estágio avançado. O conhecimento de uma variedade de técnicas de reconstrução é importante para conseguir bons resultados em vários grupos etários.

Prevención, diagnóstico y manejo de lesiones laringotraqueales agudas y subagudas posintubación en pacientes pediátricos / Prevention, diagnosis and management of acute and subacute laryngotracheal post-intubation lesions in pediatric patients

Las lesiones laringotraqueales asociadas a intubación se deben principalmente a una técnica defectuosa y a daño por presión del tubo endotraqueal sobre la mucosa; además influyen características propias del paciente y de los cuidados de enfermería. Hasta el 40% de los pacientes pediátricos intubados pueden presentar alteraciones laríngeas inmediatas y hasta 30% tienen estridor o disnea posextubación. Si estos síntomas persisten por más de 3 días tendrían indicación de laringotraqueoscopía. Las lesiones más habituales son edema, úlceras y tejido de granulación. El edema puede producir obstrucción respiratoria aguda que puede manejarse con reintubación con tubos más pequeños y aplicación tópica de crema de corticoides con antibióticos. Las úlceras y granulaciones pueden evolucionar hacia secuelas cicatriciales que comprometen la fisiología laringotraqueal; las granulaciones exofíticas deben retirarse endoscópicamente. Aunque la incidencia de estenosis subglótica posintubación ha disminuido en las últimas décadas, situándose entre 2,7%y 4,2%, algunos estudios sugieren un subdiagnóstico debido a lesiones poco sintomáticas al alta. En el período cicatricial activo, estas estenosis pueden dilatarse para evitar llegar a una cirugía abierta. El manejo otorrinolaringológico de estos pacientes en etapas tempranas es fundamental para evitar secuelas cicatriciales irreversibles que requieren de cirugías complejas, con riesgo vital por obstrucción de la vía aérea.

Intubation-associated laryngotracheal injuries are mainly caused by a defective technique and endotracheal tube pressure-induced mucosal damage; patient factors and nursing care are also important. Up to 40% of intubated pediatric patients may show immediate laryngeal alterations and up to 30% have post-extubation stridor or dyspnea. If these symptoms last for over 3 days, laryngotracheoscopy is indicated. Edema, ulcers and granulation tissue are the most usual lesions. Edema can lead to acute airway obstruction, and is managed by reintubation with a smaller tube and topical application of a corticosteroid and antibiotic cream. Ulcers and granulations can lead to scarring that compromise laryngotracheal physiology; exophytic granulations must be removed endoscopically. Although the incidence of post-intubation subglottic stenosis has diminished over the last decades to about2,7% to 4,2%, some studies suggest that there is a subdiagnosis because of oligosymptomatic lesions at the time of discharge. On the active scarring period, dilatation of the stenosis can be used to avoid open surgery. Early otorhinolaryngologic management of these patients is fundamental for avoiding irreversible cicatricial sequels that require complex surgeries, with life risk due to airway obstruction.

Clinical Diagnosis and Treatment of Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis: a Report with Four Patients / 现代生物医学进展

Objective:To investigate the clinical diagnosis and treatment of idiopathic subglottic stenosis.Methods:From May 2012 to January 2014,four patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis admitted in the Department of Otolaryngology,the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School,Nanjing,Jiangsu,China were selected for review.Results:All the four patients with idiopathic subglottic stenosis were resolved after the resection of the pathological tissues and subsequent hormone treatment.Conclusions:The confirmed diagnosis of idiopathic subglottic stenosis mainly relied on the medical history and pathological examination.Favorable treatment effects might be obtained by combining surgical resection and hormone treatment.

Clinical Features and Outcomes of Patients in Neonatal Intensive Care Requiring Laryngologic Consultation for Airway Disorders / 대한이비인후과학회지

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Airway problems frequently occur in neonatal patients requiring intensive care due to high prevalence of intubation history and congenital conditions that are linked to craniofacial or upper aerodigestive tract anomalies. However, many investigations on airway disorders have examined large populations of hospitalized children without focusing on those treated in the intensive care unit (ICU). Here we present the clinical features and outcomes in infants hospitalized with airway-related problems at the neonatal ICU. SUBJECTS AND METHOD: A total 69 patients were studied from May 2005 to December 2012, with each examined by an otolaryngologist while in neonatal ICU (NICU) for possible airway problems. Descriptive analysis was used in evaluating illnesses suffered and subsequent upper airway treatments. Factors associated with tracheostomy were identified by multivariate analysis. RESULTS: The median age of infants was 30 days (range, 1-237 days), with a male-to-female ratio of 1.38. The median gestational age was 35⁺³ weeks, and the mean birth weight was 2.35±0.89 kg. Overall, 40 patients had histories of intubation (median duration, 36 days; range, 1-204 days). The most common diagnosis in the upper airway exam was laryngomalacia (n=12), followed by subglottic stenosis (n=10) and micrognathia (n=8). Tracheostomy was performed in 38 patients (55.1%). In multivariate analysis, intubation history was identified as the only variable demonstrating a significant independent association with tracheostomy (p=0.006). CONCLUSION: Upper airway problems in NICU patients are due to a variety of disorders. Precise diagnosis and treatment is achievable through bedside and intraoperative assessments. Patients with a history of intubation are at increased risk of tracheostomy.

Supraglotoplastía láser en laringomalacia severa / Laser supraglottoplasty for severe laryngomalacia

Introducción: La laringomalacia es la causa más frecuente de estridor en lactantes, representando el 60%-70% de los defectos congénitos laríngeos. Entre 10%-20% de estos pacientes puede requerir tratamiento quirúrgico. Objetivo: Revisar las manifestaciones clínicas y los resultados de las supragloto-plastías en laringomalacia severa en nuestro hospital durante 2015. Material y método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo mediante revisión de fichas clínicas de pacientes sometidos a supraglotoplastía en el Hospital Guillermo Grant Benavente de Concepción en 2015. Resultados: Se intervinieron 11 pacientes siendo el promedio de edad, al momento de la cirugía, de 7,3 meses. Todos los pacientes tenían dificultad para alimentarse y el 45% además cianosis con la alimentación y el llanto, desaturaciones y pausas respiratorias. Cuatro casos portaban anomalías congénitas asociadas y el 73% presentó lesiones concomitantes de vía aérea, principalmente estenosis subglótica (64%). Los tipos morfológicos observados de laringomalacia fueron los tipos I y II con 27% y 73%, respectivamente. La tasa de éxito quirúrgico fue de 91%, sin necesidad de revisiones y no se presentaron complicaciones relacionadas al procedimiento. Conclusiones: La supraglotoplastía con láser es una técnica segura y efectiva para el tratamiento de laringomalacia severa. Los pacientes con laringomalacia severa debiesen ser sometidos a una revisión completa de vía aérea para evaluar otras comorbilidades.

Introduction: Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of stridor in infants, accounting for 60%-70% of laryngeal congenital defects. Between 10% to 20% of these patients may require surgical treatment. Aim: To review the clinical manifestations and outcomes of supraglottoplasties in severe laryngomalacia at our hospital during 2015. Material and method: Retrospective medical record review of children that underwent CO2 laser supraglottoplasty at Hospital Guillermo Grant Benavente in Concepcion during 2015. Results: Eleven patients were included in this study, the average age at the time of surgery was 7.3 months. All the patients had stridor associated with feeding difficulty and 45% of them also had cyanosis with feeding and crying, desaturations and respiratory pauses. Four cases had associated congenital anomalies and 73% of the patients had airway comorbidity, mostly subglottic stenosis (64%). All of ourpatients had types I and II laryngomalacia with 27% and 73%, respectively. The success rate of surgery was 91%, no patients required a revision supraglottoplasty and there were no complications related to the procedure. Conclusions: CO2 laser supraglottoplasty proved to be a safe and effective treatment for severe laryngomalacia. Patients with severe laryngomalacia should undergo a full airway revision under general anesthesia to assess airway comorbidity.

Estenosis subglótica en pacientes con granulomatosis con poliangeítis / Subglottic stenosis in patients with granulomatosis with polyangiitis

Introducción: La granulomatosis con poliangeítis (GPA) es una enfermedad autoinmune con múltiples manifestaciones otorrinolaringológicas. La estenosis subglótica (ESG) se reporta entre 8%-50% de los pacientes. Objetivo: Describir la presentación clínica y tratamiento de la ESG en pacientes con GPA. Material y método: Estudio descriptivo retrospectivo de los pacientes atendidos en el Departamento de Otorrinolaringología de la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile entre 2011 y 2015 con diagnóstico de GPA y ESG. Resultados: Diez pacientes (90% mujeres) con edad promedio al diagnóstico de 44,6 años. Los síntomas fueron: disnea (9/10), disfonía (6/10) y estridor (5/10). En el 80%, la ESG fue la presentación inicial de la GPA. El 90% presentó GPA localizada y 10% GPA sistémica. El 60% presentó anticuerpos anticitoplasma de neutrófilos (ANCA) negativo. Todos los pacientes recibieron glucocorticoides sistémicos, asociados a inmunosupresores y/o anticuerpos monoclonales. Una paciente requirió traqueostomía y dos pacientes han requerido dilatación endoscópica con balón asociado a inyección local de metilprednisolona. Conclusiones: La ESG puede ser la única manifestación de GPA. Los síntomas inespecíficos y la alta probabilidad de presentar ANCA negativo hacen difícil el diagnóstico. El manejo debe ser individualizado y multidisciplinario. La mayoría de nuestros pacientes pudieron ser manejados adecuadamente con tratamiento médico.

Introduction: Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an autoimmune disease that presents with multiple ENT manifestations. Subglottic stenosis (SGS) has been reported in 8-50% of the patients. Aim: To describe the clinical presentation and treatment of SGS in patients with GPA. Material and method: Retrospective review of clinical data from all patients consulting in the Otolaryngology department at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile from 2011 to 2015 with SGS and GPA diagnosis. Results: Ten patients (90% female) with average age at diagnosis of44.6 years. The symptoms were: dyspnea (9/10), dysphonia (6/10) and stridor (5/10). SGS was the initial presenting manifestation of GPA in 80% of patients. GPA was localized in 90% and systemic in 10% of patients, and anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) were negative in 60% of patients. Systemic glucocorticoids were used in every patient, associated with immunosuppressants and/or monoclonal antibodies. One patient required tracheostomy and 2 patients were treated with endoscopic balloon dilation associated with local methylprednisolone injection. Conclusions: SGS can be GPA’s initial or unique manifestation. Diagnosis is hindered due to the unspecificity ofsymptoms and the high probability of presenting with negative ANCA. Individualized and multidisciplinary treatment is required. Most patients were treated pharmacologically with an adequate response in our series.