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Subtotal submucosal cricoid resection: An experimental study
Author(s) -
Shaha Ashok,
Burnett Carlos,
Dimaio Terry,
Jaffe Bernard M.
Publication year - 1991
Publication title -
journal of surgical oncology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.201
H-Index - 111
eISSN - 1096-9098
pISSN - 0022-4790
DOI - 10.1002/jso.2930480306
Subject(s) - medicine , resection , surgery , cricoid cartilage , general surgery , larynx
It has generally been considered that the cricoid cartilage is essential for maintaining airway continuity. The purpose of this experimental study was to test this concept by evaluating the effects of subtotal excision of the canine cricoid cartilage. Eight adult mongrel dogs were studied. They received general anesthesia and were intubated. By using a vertical midline incision, the cricoid cartilage was exposed. Subtotal cricoid resection was performed by submucosal dissection; the mucosal continuity was not violated. The resultant defect in the cricoid cartilage was reconstructed with a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft which was sutured in place with prolene sutures. All the dogs were extubated immediately after surgery. None required tracheostomy or ventilatory support and none had any respiratory problems during the follow‐up period. They were all able to eat soon after surgery. The animals were followed for up to 4 to 6 months and then sacrificed to permit evaluation of the condition of the airway and subglottic space. There was fibrous scarring outside the graft but no evidence of airway narrowing. Despite submucosal fibrosis, the mucosa appeared normal. The data documented that dogs tolerate subtotal cricoid resection very well and develop no subglottic stenosis. The resultant defect in the cricoid cartilage can readily be reconstructed with a PTFE graft.