Noisy breathing, feeding and voice problems often co-exist. They can be life-threatening, or severely delay growth and development. Sometimes, underlying airway anomalies like narrowing and tumors may be wrongly diagnosed as asthma or recurrent infections.
A flexible nasoendoscopy is done to diagnose the site of obstruction in the clinic. Airway X-rays may be needed. Our speech and swallow therapist assesses for related voice and feeding problems. A rigid bronchoscopy under general anesthesia may be needed. We make every effort to avoid an artificial airway opening in the neck (tracheotomy) where possible, so that the child can breathe, speak and socialise normally. Previously, there were fewer surgical options for children with airway problems. Our doctors are able to offer the expertise for complex airway reconstruction surgery. Rib grafts, wire and silicone stents, and resection-anastomosis surgery are also available. Adults can be similarly helped.
A multi-disciplinary team (ENT, Respiratory, Surgery sub-specialties, Gastroenterology, Genetics, Speech and Swallow) coordinate evaluation to reduce investigation time and optimise treatment. Expert care from NUH Neonatal and Paediatric Intensive Care Units are available peri-operatively.
Visit our NUH Website