A Case of Successful Outpatient Laser Treatment for the Re-adhesion of Posterior Glottic Adhesion

Abstract

Posterior glottic stenosis (PGS) is commonly induced by tracheal intubation. The condition is treated by laryngeal microsurgery using scissors, lasers, and microdebriders under general anesthesia. We experienced the case of a woman in her 40s who developed PGS after tracheal intubation. She underwent tracheostomy for bilateral vocal fold paralysis. She was observed for one year, and her vocal fold movements did not improve. She was thereafter referred to our department to undergo the laterofixation of the vocal fold in order to treat her bilateral vocal fold paralysis. However, she was thus diagnosed with PGS. As a result of this new diagnosis, she underwent laryngeal microsurgery, in which the area of PGS was cut out with scissors. Unfortunately, her wound showed re-adhesion after surgery. We attempted to treat the patient using a green laser in an outpatient setting. This treatment proved to be successful, and the tracheal stoma was closed. Green lasers are generally used for photo-coagulation; however, their cutting ability is weak. In the present case, a green laser was successfully used for cutting. Green lasers may therefore be an effective option for the treatment of PGS after tracheal intubation.