Epiglottic reconstruction of laryngeal stenosis secondary to cricothyroidostomy.

Two cases of laryngeal stenosis secondary to cricothyroidostomy are presented with their management. Both laryngeal injuries involved the glottis and subglottis regions with the second case sustaining total closure of the larynx by scar tissue. Although different surgical procedures were employed, management was successful in each case with one surgical attempt. Total glottic and subglottic reconstruction was necessary in the second case and was successfully handled with a modification of the epiglottic laryngoplasty. The surgical technique is described in detail. Caution is raised concerning the routine use of cricothyroidostomy. Epiglottic laryngoplasty is presented as a simple and encouraging procedure for laryngeal reconstruction of laryngeal stenosis.