Case Report: Desmoglein-3 Gene Mutation Leading to Airway Compromise in Fraternal Twin Infants.

The desmoglein 3 18q11 gene mutation has not been well described in humans, except for a few case reports. The desmoglein 3 gene controls a transmembrane component of the desmosome complex that mediates epidermal cell adhesion and integrity of the oropharyngeal mucosa. We present two fraternal twin infants who exhibited features of airway compromise and respiratory distress shortly after birth.

Indications for Surgical Repair of Type 1 Laryngeal Cleft.

Objectives: Type 1 laryngeal cleft (T1LC) is a congenital deficiency in the posterior glottis, resulting in a communication between the hypopharynx and glottis. No consensus treatment paradigm exists for timing and criteria for patient selection for surgical repair. Our goal is to assess whether patient characteristics can help predict improvement after surgery.

Segmental hemangiomas of the upper airway.

Objectives/hypothesis: To characterize the anatomic distribution of segmental hemangiomas of the larynx and to describe indications for treatment modalities.

Study Design: Retrospective chart review.

Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with cutaneous hemangiomas at a tertiary care center over a 4-year period.

Minimally invasive techniques in laryngotracheal reconstruction.

The treatment of laryngotracheal stenosis has evolved over the past several decades. Advances in technology, equipment and medication have increased our ability to treat some airway stenosis in a minimally invasive manner, and at times by an endoscopic method. With improved precision, our results with postoperative voice and swallowing should improve.

Practice patterns, safety, and rationale for tracheostomy tube changes: a survey of otolaryngology training programs.

Introduction: Tracheotomy for long-term ventilation is a common surgical procedure in the hospital setting. Although the postoperative care is often perceived as routine, complications associated with tracheostomy changes may result in loss of airway and death. In addition, the practice patterns, rationale, and complications related to tube changes have been poorly described.