Introduction Diseases of the laryngo-tracheal junction (LTJ) are rare, but critical conditions.
Data for the normative diameter are missing to serev as a surgical target and to assess
the relevance of residual stenosis in patients with multiple airway problems. Aim
of this study was to develop a protocol and provide first normative data, as well
as to assess previously reported risk factors
Methods Using 100 randomly chosen MRI scans of the Study of Health in Pomerania (SHIP) a
reliable protocol to measure the airway dimensions was developed. Using MeVisLab Version
2.4, 801 MRIs of the LTJ and 3.226 data sets of the cricoid arch. On each obtained
scan, the maximal anterior-posteriore diameter (APmax), maximal transversal diameter
(LLmax) and the crosse sectional area (CSA) was measured
Results 4165 MRI showed sufficient quality for analysis. Of these, the mean APmax was 18,1 ± 2,7
mm, mean LLMax was 14,8 ±2,5mm and the CSA was 212 ± 63,2 mm 2. gender and a previously diagnosed thyroid disease were significant confounding factors.
Discussion For the first time, epidemiologically based dimensions can be presented to serve
as comparative data in case of stenosis of the LTJ or as a help in choosing a stent
of a maximal intubation tube. Also, these data have the potential to aid in the counselling
of patients with multiple airway stenoses.
Poster-PDF
A-1618.PDF
