Fiber optic CO2-laser induced emphysema of the supraglottis. (November 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Arnold, Lauren; Kennel, Christopher; Gov-Ari, Eliav
• Is Part Of: International journal of pediatric otorhinolaryngology. Volume 138(2020:Nov.)
• Publication Date: 2020-11
• Subjects: Submucosal emphysema -- Supraglottis -- Laryngeal cleft -- CO2-Laser fiber -- Helium -- Airway surgery; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Otolaryngology -- Periodicals; Pediatrics -- Periodicals; Oto-rhino-laryngologie -- Périodiques; Pédiatrie -- Périodiques; 618.9209751
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijporl.2020.110279
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0165-5876

Abstract

Abstract: Subcutaneous emphysema is a rare but well-defined surgical complication. However, emphysema of the supraglottic mucosa has not been described in the literature. We present a case of a 2-year-old male who suffered supraglottic emphysema secondary to fiber optic CO2 -laser use during laryngeal cleft repair. The patient required preemptive postoperative intubation; however, there were no long-lasting adverse effects at 6 and 12 weeks follow up. This report illustrates a rare CO2 -laser complication and describes its sequela. Highlights: Fiber optic laser surgery can induce airway tissue emphysema if carrier gas settings are too high. Carrier gas settings vary by the type of fiber used and the application. Helium emphysema of the suprglottis may require temporary intubation. There do not appear to be any negative long term effects of helium emphysema of the suprglottis.