Open Airway Reconstruction: Tips for Success Across the Age Spectrum

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Pediatric laryngotracheal reconstruction efforts result in decannulation rates of 85-90%. There is a general paucity of of reports on technical factors which may contribute to surgical treatment failure. Yet, important pitfalls must be recognized. In revision surgery specifically, techniques must be tailored to the individual patient to address these pitfalls and avoid errors which may subsequently make decannulation nearly impossible. This course, from an experienced and well established pediatric airway surgeon will address pitfall in primary and revision airway reconstruction, ideal timing of procedures, specific technical pearls supported by video demonstrations, stenting needs, and a review of holistic patient factors which may contribute to failure.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Describe surgical techniques (with video examples) specific to challenging cases and discuss patient specific factors which may contribute to reconstruction failur

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Understand the role and technical aspects of stenting after reconstruction which can greatly enhance chances of success

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: List key differences of children vs. adults in the surgical management of laryngeal and tracheal stenosis

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: Few courses on airway reconstruction techniques list specific and critical differences in anatomic and (more importantly) surgical concepts that influence success and decannulation outcomes across the age spectrum. High quality videos will be used to highlight these critical concepts

Comprehensive Otolaryngology Track Statement : n/a