Technique for improved safety in the endoscopic management of subglottic stenosis

Objective: To identify a safe approach to airway management during the endoscopic balloon dilation of subglottic stenosis Background: Subglottic stenosis is an abnormal narrowing of the upper airway commonly managed by endoscopic technique performed on an unsecured airway. Methods: Review of surgical treatment of subglottic stenosis cases by the senior author. Technique: Following steroid injection and radial cuts performed either under jet anesthesia or mask ventilation with brief periods of apnea, a small endotracheal tube may be passed beyond the narrowing to permit adjacent balloon dilation with the airway secured. Conclusions: We introduce an endoscopic subglottic balloon dilation technique done with a secured airway. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Inc.