Laryngeal atresia is a congenital failure of the laryngeal opening to develop, resulting in partial or total obstruction at or just above or below the glottis.

Congenital laryngeal atresia may be incomplete or complete. Incomplete atresia consists of a firm fibrous membrane obstructing the glottis. Emergent tracheotomy is necessary. Complete atresia may present as stillbirth.

Seventy-five percent of congenital laryngeal anomalies are at the glottic level. The rest are at the supraglottic or subglottic level.

Symptoms

# Hoarse voice
# Weak voice
# Recurring upper respiratory infections
# Respiratory distress
# Stridor
# Unusual cry
# Subglottic narrowing
# Short stature