Annals of surgery
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Strictures of the upper airway caused by burns have features distinct from other benign stenoses. The authors reviewed their experience with burn-related stenoses to define the principles of treatment. ⋯ Strictures of the upper airway related to inhalation injury are associated with prolonged inflammation and involve larynx and trachea in a majority of patients. These complex injuries respond to prolonged tracheal stenting (mean, 28 months) and resection or stenting of subglottic stenoses with recovery of a functional airway and voice in most patients. Early tracheal resection should be avoided.