Relative imbalance as etiology of laryngomalacia - A new theory

Abstract

Laryngomalacia literally means weak larynx. It is the most common cause of noisy breathing in infants and children constituting around 70% of cases. Its aetiology is not clear and various theories are proposed. Treatment remains following the child with regular weight monitoring in view of expected spontaneous resolution. However we cannot predict which child will resolve spontaneously and which child may need surgical intervention. We propose a new theory based on relative imbalance of demand supply of air, suggesting the increase in demand causing turbulent airflow, increasing suction pressure and causing collapse of laryngeal structures. This theory also helps us in predicting early, which child will resolve spontaneously and which child will need surgery. The methodology to evaluate hypothesis along with techniques and tools are also suggested.