Xeroradiographic evaluation of obstructive lesions of the larynx and trachea.

Xeroradiography is a useful technique to evaluate the larynx and trachea for masses, granulation tissue, and, in general, to separate normal from abnormal morphology. Because of the edge enhancement effect, there is more information on the xeroradiograph than on the conventional radiograph, but the radiation exposure is 8-10 times greater. Thus, xeroradiography should be reserved for the evaluation of the airway in a child with respiratory difficulty where conventional imaging modalities have been unsuccessful.