Combined infrahyoid and inferior constrictor muscle release for tension-free anastomosis during primary tracheal repair.

Although tracheal stenosis is not a common clinical entity, it still presents a significant management problem, despite recent endoscopic advances. Surgical correction by resection and primary anastomosis is the preferred treatment, provided the repair can be performed without excessive tension. Various release techniques have been described in order to achieve mobility and, thereby, a tension-free anastomosis. This article presents a combined infrahyoid muscle and inferior constrictor muscle release to assure maximum mobility of the laryngotracheal complex, thus allowing tension-free closure. A series of ten patients who underwent primary repair using the combined technique is presented, and the operative technique is described. The indications, age, length of stenosis, and minimum 1 year followup of these patients are presented, as well as perioperative management and complications. The success rate with this technique is 90%.

The role of powered instrumentation in the surgical treatment of allergic fungal sinusitis.

Allergic fungal sinusitis is a chronic disorder that is being more frequently recognized by otolaryngologists. It is a recurrent illness characterized by frequent exacerbations, and requires aggressive medical and surgical treatment. When surgical therapy is employed, it is necessary to ensure adequate debridement and removal of edematous tissue. We have been using powered dissection as our primary method in sinus surgery over the past three year. We have treated 11 patients with allergic fungal sinusitis, and find powered instrumentation to be very effective in removing the polypoid tissue from the nose and sinuses, and in providing a clear surgical field. The procedure can be performed safely with minimal trauma to normal tissue. We believe that the use of powered dissection greatly enhances the comprehensive treatment of allergic fungal sinusitis.