Med Lasers.  2024 Sep;13(3):123-127. 10.25289/ML.24.017.

The role of CO₂ laser surgery in the management of severe laryngomalacia: efficacy, safety, and future directions

• Kim YS
• Jung KY
• Baek SK

• KMID: 2564460
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.25289/ML.24.017

Abstract

Laryngomalacia is the most common cause of stridor in infants and often resolves spontaneously by 18-24 months of age. However, severe cases necessitate medical intervention due to significant respiratory distress and feeding difficulties. Laser surgery, using carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) lasers, has emerged as a pivotal therapeutic approach for severe laryngomalacia. This review examines the efficacy, safety, and long-term outcomes of CO₂ laser surgery for laryngomalacia. CO₂ lasers offer precise tissue vaporization, minimizing collateral damage and enhancing recovery. Numerous studies have reported high success rates, with significant symptomatic improvement and a reduction in the need for more invasive procedures like tracheostomy. Complications such as intraoperative bleeding and postoperative edema may occur. However, they are generally manageable. Long-term outcomes indicate normal growth and development with minimal impact on voice quality and swallowing function. Advancements in laser technology and ongoing research are expected to further improve the efficacy and safety of laser surgery for laryngomalacia.