SUPRAGLOTTIC TRANSECTION - RESULTS OF REPAIR AND FUNCTIONAL OUTCOME

We present two cases of supraglottic transection, with concomitant neu rotemesis of the superior laryngeal nerve. Both cases were repaired pr imarily and a temporary tracheostomy was used to protect the airway. I n both cases subsequent decannulation was achieved within four weeks, following the initial injury. No long-term swallowing or voice disturb ance was noted in either case. We recommend that in such cases it is u nnecessary to repair the nerves directly, but that careful repair of t he wound itself will achieve a functional result.