Neonatal airway lesions: our experience and a review of the literature

Abstract

Objectives: This paper reports on two rare cases of neonatal airway lesions with differing aetiology that were successfully managed by surgery, and provides a review of the literature on neonatal stridor and airway lesions.

Case reports: In the first case report, a newborn presented with a nasopharyngeal teratoma. In the second case report, a newborn presented with a congenital laryngeal saccular cyst. Difficulties in the diagnosis of these lesions, and surgical and anaesthetic challenges in their management are discussed.

Conclusion: Every case of neonatal airway distress must be evaluated and the cause of stridor needs to be established. It is important that rare lesions such as teratomas and laryngeal cysts are not overlooked; a high index of suspicion for these congenital anomalies is necessary. These airway lesions should be managed in an institutional setting by a multidisciplinary team.