What Is Supraglottoplasty?

Supraglottoplasty is a surgical procedure performed on the soft tissues above the larynx, or voice box. It involves widening the airway and increasing its diameter, allowing for better airflow and reduced vocal strain.

Supraglottoplasty is used to correct various conditions affecting the upper airway. It can treat:

- Chronic supraglottic stenosis, which is a narrowing or blockage of the airway above the vocal cords. This can cause breathing difficulties and hoarseness.

- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a sleep disorder characterized by frequent pauses in breathing due to a blocked airway.

- Vocal fold paresis or paralysis, which is weakness or complete loss of movement of one or both vocal cords.

- Glottic insufficiency, which occurs when the vocal cords cannot close properly, causing a breathy or weak voice.

During a supraglottoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in the neck, providing access to the supraglottic area. Redundant tissue, such as thickened or enlarged epiglottis, arytenoids, or false vocal cords, is removed or reshaped to enlarge the airway. This creates more space for air to pass through, reducing breathing difficulties and improving voice quality.

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may require a short hospitalization for observation. After the surgery, patients may experience some discomfort and swelling, but most recover fully and notice a significant improvement in breathing and/or voice.