Laryngotracheoplasty for subglottic stenosis in Down Syndrome children: the Cincinnati experience

Previous studies from our institution have noted difficulties in the surgic al repair of subglottic stenosis (SGS) in children with Down Syndrome. The objectives of this paper were to update our 15 year experience in the Down Syndrome patient population, compare our results with our overall series of laryngotracheoplasty for SGS, and to report on the increased incidence of posterior glottic stenosis (PGS) within this group of patients. Medical rec ords of all children with SGS and Down Syndrome evaluated between 1982 and 1997 were reviewed for history of prior intubation, tracheotomy, gastroesop hageal reflux disease (GERD), pre-operative SGS grade, and decannulation. F rom this review several conclusions have been drawn. First, the risk factor s for SGS appear to be the same in the Down Syndrome group as the general p opulation. Second, SGS continues to be more prevalent among children with D own Syndrome than among children in the general population. Third, we have now found a higher rate of PGS within these patients when compared to our o verall series. Finally, it now seems that our decannulation rates in Down S yndrome children are approaching our overall series results. (C) 2001 Elsev ier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.