Microdebrider-Assisted Supraglottoplasty for Laryngomalacia

Abstract

Objectives

We describe our series in the surgical treatment of laryngomalacia using a microdebrider.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent microdebrider-assisted supraglottoplasty for laryngomalacia between October 2004 and February 2008. Patients with neurologic conditions and secondary airway lesions were excluded. The main outcome measures included complications, pain, resolution of stridor, presence of aspiration, and need for revision surgery.

Results

Twenty-eight patients underwent microdebrider-assisted supraglottoplasty. The mean age at diagnosis was 109 days, and the mean age at the time of the procedure was 182 days. Nineteen patients (68%) had gastroesophageal reflux at diagnosis. The average operative time was 35.7 minutes (range, 11 to 65 minutes). No intraoperative complications or device problems occurred. Two patients remained intubated after the procedure. One patient required a tracheotomy, and 1 patient underwent revision supraglottoplasty. Three patients had aspiration that resolved. There was negligible pain from the procedure, as all patients immediately resumed a diet. All patients had immediate or eventual resolution of stridor.

Conclusions

This is the largest series of patients who underwent microdebrider-assisted supraglottoplasty for laryngomalacia. This procedure is relatively safe, with minimal pain, and effective in patients with laryngomalacia. Microdebrider-assisted supraglottoplasty is the method of choice for supraglottoplasty in our institution.