Functional Outcome After (Laryngo)tracheal Resection and Reconstruction for Acquired Benign (Laryngo)tracheal Stenosis

Timman and colleagues assessed the functional outcomes of patients who underwent laryngotracheal resection (LTR) and reconstruction for benign laryngotracheal stenosis. Between 1996 and 2017, 119 consecutive patients underwent LTR (n = 47) or end-to-end segmented tracheal resection (n = 56). There was consistent functional improvement during follow-up, particularly with respect to the sensation of dyspnea during exercise and the reduction of inspiratory stridor, although early voice alterations without recurrent nerve palsy were reported more often after LTR (34% versus 16%). All airway-related scores and quality of life measures improved significantly following both therapeutic modalities. While these results are promising, the low questionnaire response rate (63%) prompts caution.