Hostname: page-component-cd9895bd7-dk4vv Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-12-24T12:18:10.968Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Supraglottic transection: results of repair and functional outcome

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  29 June 2007

Peter A. Williamson*
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology. Southmead Hospital, Bristol.
Jenny Weir
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology. Southmead Hospital, Bristol.
David L. Baldwin
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology. Southmead Hospital, Bristol.
*
Address for correspondence: Mr P. A. Williamson, ENT Registrar. Department of Otolaryngology. Royal United Hospital. Bath.

Abstract

We present two cases of supraglottic transection, with concomitant neurotemesis of the superior laryngeal nerve. Both cases were repaired primarily and a temporary tracheostomy was used to protect the airway. In both cases subsequent decannulation was achieved within four weeks, following the initial injury. No long-term swallowing or voice disturbance was noted in either case. We recommend that in such cases it is unnecessary to repair the nerves directly, but that careful repair of the wound itself will achieve a functional result.

Type
Clinical Records
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 1995

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)

References

Durham, C., Harrison, T. (1964) The surgical anatomy of the superior laryngeal nerve. Surgery, Gynecology and Obstetrics 118: 3844.Google ScholarPubMed
Gussack, G., Jurkovich, G., Luterman, A. (1986) Laryngotracheal trauma: a protocol approach to a rare injury. Laryngoscope 96: 660665.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed
Harris, H. (1972) Management of injuries to the larynx and trachea. Laryngoscope 82: 19241929.CrossRefGoogle Scholar
Schaefer, S. (1991) The treatment of acute external laryngeal injuries Archives of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery 117: 3539.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed
Schaefer, S. (1992) The acute management of external laryngeal trauma: a 27 year experience. Archives of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery 118: 598604.CrossRefGoogle ScholarPubMed