International perspective of injection laryngoplasty for laryngeal cleft – A survey study

Objectives

Laryngeal Cleft (LC) is an anatomical defect that can cause swallowing difficulties and subsequent recurrent respiratory symptoms. LC can be treated surgically by performing suture repair or by Injection Laryngoplasty (IL). The indications and efficacy of IL are debated among pediatric otolaryngologists. The aim of this survey study was to review the international perspective on IL for LC.

Methods

An online survey was conducted to assess international opinions on the indications and efficacy of IL for LC patients. An online survey was sent to 250 pediatric otolaryngologists worldwide. The survey included questions on the management of LC, the physicians’ experience with IL, and their use of IL.

Results

Sixty two (25 %) pediatric otolaryngologists, from 47 medical centers, completed the survey. Of the respondents, 38 (62 %) perform IL. The most reported indication was as a diagnostic tool. For the respondents who did not perform IL, the reasons most reported were that the effect is temporary and that there is a need for a second surgery after IL.

Conclusion

According to this survey, the perspectives on the use of IL for LC differ among pediatric otolaryngologists, and there is variation in peri-and postoperative standard of care. The respondents' opinions on IL were partly dependent on the intended outcome of its use, i.e., as a permanent treatment or for other indications.