Rib cartilage grafts for the treatment of posterior glottic and subglottic stenosis in children.

Posterior glottic and subglottic stenosis from endotracheal intubation in children can be managed endoscopically with varying success. Open surgical treatment offers a better potential for correction with a single procedure in moderate and severe cases. The open method consists of splitting the scar and cricoid cartilage posteriorly to the level of the interarytenoid muscle, then stenting the incised cricoid open with a rib cartilage graft. Use of this method is described, and results in 12 cases are reported. Decannulation was achieved in ten patients. In all patients who were decannulated, good exercise tolerance, freedom from aspiration, and an adequate voice quality were achieved.