Assessment of efficacy of laryngotracheal reconstruction with autogenous rib cartilage graft

Introduction. Subglottic stenosis may lead to respiratory failure, especially in newborns and small children. It is the most common indication for tracheostomy in order to maintain airway patency in this age group. Subglottic stenosis requires surgical treatment. Laryngotracheal reconstruction with autogenous rib cartilage graft is one of the many treatment methods. Aim. The aim of the study was to assess of efficacy of laryngotracheal reconstruction with autogenous rib cartilage graft. Material and methods. Clinical data of 8 children operated for subglottic stenosis has been analysed. The severity of stenosis was assessed during the endoscopic examination with the Myer?Cotton Grading System. The efficacy of treatment was understood as a possibility of decannulation. Results. The study group included 8 patients: 6 boys and 2 girls. All the children had been born prematurely between the 24th and 34th week of pregnancy and were intubated in the early neonatal period. In 5 cases, decannulation followed, and in 3 cases, the treatment proved to be not effective enough, as the children had additional health problems. Conclusions. Prematurely born children intubated in the early neonatal period are at risk of post-intubation subglottic stenosis. Laryngotracheal reconstruction with autogenous rib cartilage graft is an effective treatment method. Treatment outcomes are also dependent on the overall health status of the patient and coexisting tracheal lesions.