Have you ever heard a strange sound, like a snoring, when your little one breathes, especially when inhaling? Some parents are a little worried about this. One reason for this could be a condition called `Laryngomalacia`. So today we are talking about a surgery called `Supraglottoplasty` that is done as a solution to this. Don't be scared when you hear this, let's explain everything about it simply.
Simply put, what is Supraglottoplasty?
Simply put, `Supraglottoplasty` is a surgical procedure. If there is excess tissue in our larynx, or the 'voice box' that we use when we speak, then this surgery is done to make breathing easier. Imagine, when you breathe, this excess tissue gets pulled inwards and blocks the airway. Then it becomes difficult for the baby to breathe. So this surgery removes that obstruction and makes breathing easier.
Although this surgery is most often performed on young children, it can sometimes be necessary for older children and adults. Doctors only recommend this surgery if other treatments, such as medication, have not been successful. Overall, it is a very safe, quick, and successful surgery. You (or your baby) can return to normal life in as little as two weeks.
What conditions require this surgery?
This surgery is often performed on young children with a condition called `Laryngomalacia.` Let's take a look at what it is.
- Laryngomalacia: This is when the tissue around the larynx becomes very 'loose'. Then, every time the baby takes a breath, this loose tissue pulls inward and blocks the airway. This is the cause of that snoring sound we mentioned earlier. Not all babies need surgery, and most will get better on their own over time. However, about 20% of children, or about one in five, may need this surgery.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): In addition, this surgery is sometimes performed as a treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) in children and even adults.
What happens before and during the surgery?
Preparation before surgery
There is no need for much preparation before the surgery, but your doctor will advise you on some things.
- Stomach acid control: If your baby has a problem like gastritis, which means that stomach acid comes up into the throat (acid reflux), you may be given medication to start a few days before the surgery. This can help prevent complications that may occur after the surgery.
- Swallowing test: A special test (a `swallow study`) may be done to see if the baby is swallowing normally.
- Fasting: You will need to stop eating and drinking for a few hours before the surgery. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on this.
During the surgery
This is a surgery that is performed in a hospital, under the supervision of an anesthesiologist, under general anesthesia. Therefore, the baby does not feel any pain.
In simple terms, what happens during the surgery is as follows:
1. First, the anesthesiologist anesthetizes the baby.
2. Then, the surgeon uses a special camera-equipped device (`laryngoscope`) to examine the baby's larynx (`voice box`).
3. The excess tissue there, that is, the aryepiglottic folds on either side of the larynx, is removed using very small instruments through a very small incision.
4. Gauze is used to control bleeding.
The entire surgery takes less than an hour, but the baby will be kept in the hospital overnight for observation after the surgery.
What are the benefits, success rates, and risks of this surgery?
The biggest advantage of this is that breathing becomes much easier. Babies with `Laryngomalacia` can eat well and sleep soundly after this surgery. These things are very important for the physical, mental and social development of the baby. Some babies burn more calories than normal due to the difficulty in breathing and lose weight. This surgery solves that problem too.
Research shows that the success rate of this surgery is as high as 70% to 100% . That means it is successful most of the time.
Like any surgery, there are some risks involved, but there's nothing to worry about, because the doctors are very careful about it.
| Possible complications after surgery (very rare) | |
|---|---|
| Food or liquids entering the trachea | Aspiration |
| Blood clotting | Blood clots |
| Persistent difficulty breathing | Continued breathing issues |
| Damage to surrounding tissues | Damage to surrounding structures |
| Difficulty swallowing | Difficulty swallowing |
| Excessive bleeding | Excessive bleeding |
| Infectious conditions | Infection |
How to take care of the baby after surgery?
Recovery
Complete recovery usually occurs within one to two weeks . In the first few days after surgery, there may be some swelling and pain in the throat. The sound you make when breathing may be a little louder than before surgery. You may also feel a little reluctant to eat. These are normal and will subside in a few days. So don't worry. However, if these symptoms do not subside after two weeks, or if they worsen, be sure to inform your doctor.
Care at home
The doctor will give you a set of instructions on how to care for your baby after the surgery. It is very important to follow them exactly.
- Medications: Anti-reflux medications, such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors, may be given to prevent infections in the baby's throat and airways. Medications may also be prescribed to reduce pain.
- Love and rest: The best thing you can do is treat your baby with lots of love. Let him rest well and give him his medicine on time. Remember, your doctor is there to help you if you have any problems or fears.
| If you have these symptoms, call your doctor immediately. |
|---|
| If the breathing noise continues to increase after two weeks. |
| If you cough when you drink a liquid. |
| If you have a fever. |
| If the pain does not subside even after taking painkillers. |
| If you experience severe shortness of breath. |
Surgery, especially for your little one, can be scary for any parent. But `Supraglottoplasty` is a successful procedure that opens up your baby's windpipe and helps them breathe freely. This paves the way for your baby to get the good sleep and nutrition they need for their growth. Ask your doctor any questions you may have.
Take-Home Message
- Supraglottoplasty is a safe and successful surgery for breathing difficulties such as Laryngomalacia.
- This surgery helps the baby breathe, eat, and sleep better.
- Recovery takes one to two weeks, and it is normal for symptoms to temporarily increase slightly in the first few days after surgery.
- Follow your doctor's instructions and medications as directed after surgery.
- If you have any concerns or fears, never hesitate to ask your doctor.
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