Suturing techniques in endolaryngeal surgery.

In the past 15 years surgery of the endolarynx has been greatly expanded. This development has been the product of three main factors: technological advancements such as the microcautery, improved knowledge about the healing properties of the endolarynx, and new surgical techniques. These types of approaches are being increasingly used in the treatment of complex reconstructive procedures of the larynx. An integral part of these new procedures are special suturing techniques. At present suturing techniques are being used to fulfill a number of requirements, including approximation and lateralization of anatomical structures for operative or exposure purposes, intraoperative retraction of endotracheal tubes, closure of wounds and securement and fixation of skin grafts, intralaryngeal molds, and interfacing Silastic sheeting materials. With amazing simplicity the above requirements can be met if a few basic steps are comprehended and followed.