Pharyngoesophagoplasty, Posterior Laryngotracheoplasty, and Esophagotracheoplasty for Type III Laryngotracheoesophageal Cleft with a Distal Tracheobronchoesophageal Cleft

Introduction

Laryngotracheoesophageal cleft (LTEC) is a rare disorder allied with serious associated anomalies. Benjamin and Inglis classified laryngeal clefts as type 1: supraglottic interarytenoid cleft. Type II: partial cricoid cleft extending below the level of the vocal folds. Type III: total cricoid cleft that may extend to the cervical tracheoesophageal septum. Type IV: laryngoesophageal cleft involving a major part of the tracheoesophageal wall in the thorax.[1] Out of these, the types III and IV are most challenging to diagnose and manage being life-threatening conditions.

An unusual case of type III LTEC and distal tracheobronchoesophageal cleft with an intervening normal oesophageal segment without esophageal atresia that has not been reported is described. A novel staged surgical management adopted for this rare combination is discussed.

• References

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