Laryngotracheal Separation for Chronic Intractable Aspiration

만성 흡인에 대한 후두기관 분리술의 유용성

Background and Objectives： Intractable aspiration in patients with impaired protective function of the larynx often results in multiple episode of aspiration pneumonia, repeated hospitalizations and expensive nursing care. The purpose of this study was to review the authors’experience and Patient outcome with the laryngotracheal separation (LTS) procedure. Materials and Methods A retrospective review of 9 patients who underwent LTS between 1996 and 2001 was conducted. Ages ranged from 3 to 72 years. Results : Seven patients were expected to have morbid aspiration as a consequence of acquired neurologic injuries and two were congenital neurologic injuries. Two patients had a postoperative fistula, which was well controlled with local wound care and minor procedure. Following LTS, aspiration was effectively controlled in all patients and four were able to tolerate a regular diet. Conclusion : LTS is a low-risk, successful. definitive procedure which decreases the potential for aspiration, pulmonary complication, hospitalizations and increases quality of life, especially in patent with irreversible upper airway dysfunction and Poor speech potential.