Details of Laryngeal Web Excision

Laryngeal web excision is a rare condition in which a child’s windpipe is partially constricted, or narrowed, making it difficult to breathe normally. The larynx contains web-like tissue that limits the volume of air flowing in and out of the windpipe.

• Narrowing of the airway
• Vocal cord paralysis
• Malformation of the voice box
• Weak cartilage (tracheomalacia)

• MRI scan
• Ct scan
• Endoscopic examination
• Pulmonary function tests

Open-airway laryngotracheal reconstruction: The surgeon removes a tracheostomy tube and widens the airway by inserting precisely shaped pieces of cartilage (grafts) from the ribs, ear or thyroid into the trachea.

Endoscopic laryngotracheal reconstruction: During endoscopic surgery, the doctor inserts surgical instruments and a rod fitted with a light and camera through a rigid viewing tube (laryngoscope) into the mouth and moves them into the airway to perform the surgery, without making any external incisions.

• Infection
• Collapsed lung
• Voice and swallowing difficulties
• Endotracheal tube or stent displacement