Laryngomalacia

“Laryngo” refers to the larynx and “malacia” refers to a body tissue that is soft, so laryngomalacia is a developmental condition where the larynx doesn’t form correctly and ends up being soft and floppy.

Normally, the epiglottis, a flap of cartilage located just above the vocal cords, makes a firm arc over the airway. It’s connected to the larynx by cartilaginous structures called aryepiglottic folds.

In children born with laryngomalacia, the aryepiglottic folds are shorter than normal, so they pull the normally arc-shaped epiglottis down into a distinctive omega shape.

Weak laryngeal muscle tone is thought to cause the condition, but the exact mechanism isn’t well understood. The cartilaginous tissues are also softer than normal, so they flop into the airway.

That means that when the child breathes, that floppy structure gets sucked into the airway, causing stridor which is a high-pitched, whistling sound during breathing.

In some cases the obstruction of the airway can be so bad that it can make breathing difficult. These symptoms are usually present in infants a few weeks after birth, peaking at around six months, laryngomalacia typically self-corrects around 12 to 18 months, as the throat muscles strengthen over time.

If laryngomalacia is suspected based on the symptoms, the diagnosis can be made by laryngoscopy or bronchoscopy, using a camera to look down the throat for the classic omega-shaped epiglottis.

Treatment is rarely necessary, but if the problem persists, it can be resolved surgically. The shortened aryepiglottic folds can be cut, releasing the constrained omega-shaped epiglottis, restoring it to its proper shape and opening up the airway.

All right, as a quick recap - Laryngomalacia is a respiratory condition where the cartilaginous tissues of the larynx don’t develop correctly, leaving it soft and floppy.

Shortened aryepiglottic folds pull the softened epiglottis into an omega shape, obstructing the airflow and causing stridor.

Laryngomalacia generally resolves over time, but if it persists, it can be corrected surgically. Thanks for watching, you can help support us by donating on patreon, or subscribing to our channel, or telling your friends about us on social media.