Subglottic and Tracheal Stenosis
Subglottic and tracheal stenosis are conditions that involve narrowing of the airway, which can impact breathing and overall airway function. While both conditions share some similarities, they differ in their location and specific features.
What Is Subglottic Stenosis?
Subglottic stenosis refers to the narrowing of the airway below the vocal cords (subglottis) and above the trachea. This condition may involve the cricoid cartilage, which is the only complete cartilage ring in the airway.
Causes:
- Congenital: Abnormal development of airway cartilage before birth.
- Acquired: Often due to prolonged intubation or trauma causing scarring in the subglottic region.
Symptoms:
- Noisy breathing (stridor)
- Voice changes, such as hoarseness
- Shortness of breath
- Recurring croup
Treatment:
- Observation for mild cases
- Endoscopic procedures such as balloon dilation
- Laryngotracheal reconstruction (LTR) or cricotracheal resection (CTR) for severe cases
What Is Tracheal Stenosis?
Tracheal stenosis refers to the narrowing of the windpipe (trachea), located below the subglottis and extending toward the lungs. This condition may involve the tracheal cartilage rings and surrounding tissues.
Causes:
- Congenital: Abnormal tracheal development, such as complete tracheal rings.
- Acquired: Prolonged intubation, trauma, infections, or systemic conditions like granulomatosis with polyangiitis.
- Idiopathic: Some cases have no known cause.
Symptoms:
- Shortness of breath, especially during exertion
- Noisy breathing (stridor or wheezing)
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Difficulty clearing mucus
Treatment:
- Slide tracheoplasty or tracheal resection for severe cases
- Endoscopic interventions for mild to moderate stenosis
Key Differences Between Subglottic and Tracheal Stenosis
| Feature | Subglottic Stenosis | Tracheal Stenosis |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Below the vocal cords, above the trachea | In the trachea, below the subglottis |
| Symptoms | Noisy breathing, hoarseness, recurring croup | Shortness of breath, wheezing, frequent infections |
| Causes | Often related to intubation or congenital abnormalities | Includes systemic diseases, congenital defects, or trauma |
| Surgical Techniques | LTR, CTR, or balloon dilation | Slide tracheoplasty or tracheal resection |
Why Choose Rady Children’s Hospital?
At the Center for Pediatric Aerodigestive Disorders and Airway Surgery, we provide expert care for both subglottic and tracheal stenosis, offering:
- A multidisciplinary team including otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, gastroenterologists, and speech-language pathologists.
- State-of-the-art diagnostics, including imaging and endoscopic evaluation.
- Comprehensive surgical and non-surgical treatment options tailored to each child’s condition.
- Family-centered care with ongoing support and follow-up to ensure long-term success.
Contact Us
If your child has been diagnosed with subglottic or tracheal stenosis, our team is here to help. Schedule a consultation to learn more about your child’s treatment options.