Pitfalls to laser correction of choanal atresia.

Many methods have been used over the years to correct choanal atresia, a cause of neonatal respiratory distress. The precise, relatively bloodless incisions of the carbon dioxide laser have made it an effective tool for laser surgery using a transnasal approach. In spite of its utility, certain conditions impede laser surgery. These conditions include septal deviation, enlarged inferior turbinates, high arched hard palate, and other craniofacial disorders. Prolonged duration of stenting appears to reduce the success rate.