Evaluation and management of upper airway disorders in children

Upper airway disorders in children may be divided into those that are congenital in origin and those that are acquired. The presentation and management of these disorders is significantly influenced both by the anatomic location of the pathology, which is usually obstructive in nature, and by the severity of the obstruction. This discussion provides an overview of the presentation, diagnosis, management, and potential complications of the most commonly seen upper airway disorders. These disorders are presented within an anatomic framework, progressing from proximal at the nares to distal at the carina.

Index words:  Laryngomalacia , Vocal cord paralysis , Laryngeal webs , Subglottic stenosis , Vascular compression , Congenital tracheal anomalies , Complete tracheal rings , Laryngeal cleft