Surgical Management of Acquired Subglottic Stenosis in Patients Attending Al-Thawrah Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Subglottic stenosis is one of the most complex and challenging issues in the field of otolaryngology. The management involves a multidisciplinary approach with multiple procedures. The main aim of the management is to keep the airway patent and preserve voice production. The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of treatment methods of subglottic stenosis.

Methods: The prospective study was conducted on 40 patients between January 2012 and March 2018 at

Otorhinolaryngology Department, Al Thawra Teaching Hospital, Sana’a, Yemen.

Results: Of the subglottic stenosis patients studied, 30 (75%) were male and 10 (25%) were female. The mean age was 18.6 years. High incidence of 60% was found in the age group (15-24 years) while less was found in the age group >34 years (7.5%). Grade III stenosis represented (50%) and grade IV (25%). Endoscopic dilation was successful in grade I (100%) and grade II (80%). The external approach was successful in 18/31 (58.1%), while the success rate in all grades was (67.5%). About 50% of the patients were presented with tracheostomy in place.

Conclusion: Acquired subglottic stenosis causes airway compromise and significant morbidity to the patients. The management involves a multidisciplinary approach with multiple procedures. A large number of endoscopic and open procedures are currently in use for the treatment of this condition. There is no single method of treatment that is universally successful. Results of treatment are not very satisfactory due to multiple factors.