Stenting in experimental laryngeal injuries.

This experimental pilot project studies acute laryngeal injuries in 20 dogs and compares the use of three types of stenting materials with using no stent at all following the production of a "controlled airway deforming injury." Each injury was repaired meticulously using stainless steel wire to immobilize the cartilage separations, and fine catgut to close the mucosal lacerations. Animals were killed after observation for periods of two to six weeks postoperatively. Marked infection, ulceration, and granulation tissue formation were observed in most of the stented animals, with the nonstented animals showing the most complete and uncomplicated healing. In this experimental model, acute laryngeal "fractures" were adequately stabilized by suturing and a stable cartilaginous framework supported the healing intralaryngeal soft tissues. Avoidance of stenting in this animal series appears to decrease infection, ulceration, and granulation tissue formation resulting in improved healing.