Partial cricotracheal resection for successful reversal of laryngotracheal separation in patients with chronic aspiration.

OBJECTIVE

To present our experience with successful reversal of laryngotracheal separation in patients with chronic aspiration, to discuss our surgical technique, and to review the literature.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective case review.

METHODS

The medical records of two patients who underwent a successful reversal of laryngotracheal reversal after separation were reviewed. The two patients were evaluated clinically with videostroboscopy and videofluoroscopy.

RESULTS

Both patients presented with intractable aspiration despite protective tracheostomy because of impairment of lower cranial nerve function. After laryngotracheal separation, swallowing rehabilitation was safely possible, and neurologic improvement allowed reversal of the separation procedure. For reversal, we present the use of a partial cricotracheal resection with tracheocricothyropexia similar to the technique used for subglottic stenosis. Both patients were successfully reversed. Satisfactory voice and swallowing function 7 and 10 years after reversal, respectively, could be assessed through our evaluation. Review of the literature revealed a total of 13 cases of successful reversal after laryngotracheal separation. Technical details of surgery and functional results are rarely reported.