Bifid epiglottis- A report on surgical technique and perioperative management

• Main Authors: Nicklas Orobello, Sivakumar Chinnadurai
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier 2019-06-01
• Series: Otolaryngology Case Reports
• Online Access: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468548819300463

Objectives: Bifid epiglottis is a rare laryngeal anomaly that confers an increased risk of aspiration and respiratory compromise. We present the surgical technique and perioperative management of a child with bifid epiglottis and chronic aspiration in the setting of Pallister-Hall Syndrome. Case report: A 2-month-old male presented to the pediatric otolaryngology clinic with dysphagia and congenital anomalies associated with Pallister-Hall syndrome. Flexible laryngoscopy revealed a wide, complete epiglottic cleft. He demonstrated chronic aspiration and significant failure to thrive. The epiglottis was endoscopically reconstructed. The perioperative course of postoperative care is detailed. Follow-up laryngoscopy showed continued integrity of the epiglottis. Conclusions: Aspiration associated with bifid epiglottis can be managed successfully with endoscopic techniques. Special consideration must be given toward synchronous airway anomalies, including those secondary to surgical repair. Keywords: Bifid epiglottis, Pallister-Hall syndrome, Aspiration, Laryngoplasty