Acquired subglottic cysts: management and long term outcome.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the diagnostic strategy, treatment and outcome of acquired subglottic cysts.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Retrospective, monocentric, tertiary referential center study of 172 preterm neonates assessed by endoscopic examination over a 10 years period. Identification of patients presenting with subglottic cysts.

RESULTS

17 children were diagnosed with subglottic cysts. Among them, 98% were prematurates (28 ± 4 weeks of gestation), and 76% had a history of hyaline membrane disease or a bronchopulmonary dysplasia. All patients were intubated during the neonatal period, for a mean duration of 14 days. Mean age at diagnosis was 8 months. An associated laryngotracheal anomaly was diagnosed in 30% of cases. Six procedures, including flexible controls, were needed to achieve full recovery. We used cold steel microinstruments, CO(2) or Thulium LASER. Mean follow up was 3 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Acquired subglottic cysts concern early preterm infants. Children treated for subglottic cysts should undergo a long term follow up, as there is a trend for cysts to recur, as well as a risk of secondary subglottic stenosis.