5. Treatment Options for Subglottic Stenosis
Navigating through the treatment options for Subglottic Stenosis is crucial for managing the condition effectively. The treatment approach depends on the severity of the stenosis, whether it is congenital or acquired, and the overall health of the individual.
For milder cases, conservative management may be the preferred route. This could involve monitoring the condition, medications to manage symptoms, or special breathing exercises. The goal here is to ensure that the individual can breathe comfortably and maintain a good quality of life without immediate surgical intervention.
Surgery becomes a viable option when the stenosis is severe or if conservative management fails to provide relief. One common surgical procedure is a tracheal dilation, where the narrowed part of the airway is gently stretched to improve airflow. This procedure may need to be repeated over time, as the airway can narrow again.
In some cases, a tracheostomy might be necessary, creating an opening through the neck directly into the trachea, bypassing the narrowed area. This procedure is more common in severe cases of Subglottic Stenosis or when other treatments have been unsuccessful.
Laser surgery is another option, where the excess tissue causing the narrowing is carefully removed. This requires precision and expertise, ensuring that the airway is opened without causing additional damage. (5)
