Endoscopic management of laryngeal stenosis

Endoscopic resection in laryngeal stenosis is a valuable addition to our treatment options. The technique is often successful; it is convenient, safe, and cost effective. Endoscopic resection of a stenotic area should be undertaken only when the operating conditions are excellent and good control of the airway and good visibility through a wide bore laryngoscope are assured. A soft stent should be used if the lumen is reduced by more than 50 per cent or if granulation tissue is present. In the presence of total stenosis, the results of endoscopic resection are not predictable but the operation is worthy of trial. Endoscopic resection with or without the use of a stent is not a substitute for existing treatment modalities, nor is it a panacea; it is, however, likely to be successful in two-thirds of the cases.