Pediatric Endoscopic Airway Surgery: State of the Art, Part 1

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Pediatric Endoscopic Airway surgery has seen a resurgence in the management of pediatric airway problems. This course will discuss the indications and usage of new techniques and the integration of endoscopic techniques with open airway surgery. A more thorough understanding of the current state of endoscopic airway surgery is necessary for otolaryngologists to understand to more appropriately counsel patients regarding surgery and outcome. Preoperative and perioperative management algorithms will be discussed. Outcomes measurement will be discussed. Practical surgical techniques and nuances will also be discussed. This is Part 1 of a 2-part Course, and will concentrate on indications, evaluations and techniques, including balloon dilation, laser techniques and tracheotomy and stoma site management and decannulation. Part 2 will concentrate on specific pathologies, with a case-based approach, including laryngeal cleft management, endoscopic cricoid expansion and reduction, vocal cord paralysis in infants, vocal cord lateralization, tracheoesophageal fistulae repair, tracheal pouch management, etc.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 1: Assess the application of endoscopic surgery in the pediatric airway.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 2: Recognize the indications for preoperative and postoperative treatment using endoscopic techniques.

OUTCOME OBJECTIVE 3: Examine the risks, benefits, complications, + expected outcomes of specific techniques in pediatric endoscopic airway surgery

BACKGROUND STATEMENT: This topic has become increasingly popular over the last few years as endoscopic airway surgery has seen a resurgence of interest. Much of this has originated from work developed at Cincinnati Children's, including several new surgical techniques.