Pediatric Surgery for Laryngomalacia

Supraglottoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia. Your child will be fully asleep and monitored closely throughout the surgery.

Here’s what to expect:

• Visualization: A small camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth to view the larynx.
• Tissue Management: Floppy tissue obstructing the airway, such as the arytenoids or epiglottis, is trimmed or repositioned using micro-instruments like a laser, scissors, or microdebrider.
• Time: The procedure takes about 20–40 minutes.
• Postoperative Recovery: Most children recover within 5–10 days. In moderate-to-severe cases, hospitalization may be required for airway monitoring.

At MPENTA, we use the latest tools and techniques to ensure optimal outcomes with minimal complications.

Supraglottoplasty is usually recommended when laryngomalacia symptoms are moderate to severe, including:

• Persistent Stridor: Noisy breathing that worsens when feeding, crying, or lying down.
• Feeding Difficulties: Trouble swallowing, choking, or slow weight gain due to obstructed breathing while feeding.
• Sleep Apnea or Disrupted Sleep: Episodes of apnoea or disturbed rest are linked to airway obstruction.
• Failure to Thrive: Poor weight gain or growth due to chronic breathing or feeding problems.
• Combined Treatment Needs: Children undergoing adenoidectomy or tonsillectomy who also have laryngomalacia.

We assess your child’s full clinical picture through imaging, endoscopic examination, and symptom evaluation before recommending surgery.

Although supraglottoplasty is considered safe, there are some risks to be aware of:

• Airway Swelling: Some cases may require short-term intubation for airway support.
• Incomplete Symptom Relief: In 19-45% of children, further revision or surgical intervention may be needed.
• Anesthesia Risks: As with any surgery involving general anesthesia, there’s a low risk of complications, particularly in very young or medically complex infants.
• Postoperative Feeding or Breathing Issues: Some children may take a few days to resume regular feeding or breathing patterns.
• Specialist Availability: The surgery should be performed by a qualified pediatric ENT or airway specialist with experience in supraglottoplasty.

At MPENTA, we prioritize safety and transparency, guiding each family through the procedure, recovery, and long-term outcomes.

As a leading pediatric ENT clinic, MPENTA delivers expert airway care tailored to your child’s needs.

Our approach includes:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Clinical examination, airway endoscopy, and growth assessments.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Working with paediatricians, pulmonologists, and sleep specialists when needed.
• Minimally Invasive Tools: We use microdebriders, CO2 lasers, or cold steel instruments to reduce tissue trauma.
• Parental Guidance and Support: Clear communication before and after surgery, including detailed post-op instructions and follow-up planning.

Your child’s airway health is our priority, and we bring both skill and compassion to every procedure we perform.

Recovery after supraglottoplasty is usually smooth, with improvements often seen within days. Here’s what parents can expect:

Immediate Recovery

• Monitoring: Your child will be observed post-surgery in a recovery unit or hospital ward.
• Pain Management: Mild discomfort or a sore throat is managed with acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
• Feeding: Gradual return to regular feeding. Breastfeeding or bottle-feeding can often resume the same day.

Home Care

• Watch for Breathing Changes: Mild noise is expected, but worsening stridor or breathing distress should be reported immediately.
• Hydration: Ensure your child stays hydrated while recovering.
• Activity: Light activity is allowed; avoid overly strenuous play until your follow-up visit.

Follow-Up

Your surgeon will schedule a check-up within 1–2 weeks to assess healing and symptom resolution. In rare cases, a second endoscopy may be needed.

Preparing your child for supraglottoplasty can reduce anxiety and ensure smoother care:

• Preoperative Instructions: Follow all fasting guidelines before anesthesia.
• Illness Check: Inform your care team if your child develops a cold or infection before surgery.
• Comfort Items: Bring your child’s favourite toy, blanket, or pacifier to the hospital.
• Emotional Support: Calm reassurance goes a long way. Explain that the doctors are helping them breathe and feel better.