Problems in postoperative management after anterior cricoid split.

OBJECTIVE

Describe complications and postoperative management problems associated with the anterior cricoid split.

DESIGN

Retrospective case series.

SETTING

Urban referral hospital.

PATIENTS: Nine consecutive patients with acquired subglottic stenosis believed amenable to the anterior cricoid split.

INTERVENTION: The anterior cricoid split was performed on 10 occasions between June 1989 and June 1992.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Extubation or decannulation.

RESULTS

Six of nine patients underwent decannulation, with success. Management problems included those related to surgery or postoperative endotracheal stenting, preexisting medical conditions, and postoperative sedation requirement.

CONCLUSIONS

The number of postoperative complications and management problems was highest in those patients with both bronchopulmonary dysplasia and preexisting tracheotomy.