During the embryonic stage, if the development of the larynx is obstructed and the laryngeal cavity fails to form, resulting in the laryngeal cavity being occluded and unable to ventilate at birth, it is called congenital laryngeal atresia. There are two types: membranous or cartilaginous. Regardless of the type of atresia, there is often a small opening in the posterior part of the larynx, known as the tracheoesophageal duct.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

The infant showed no breathing or crying after birth. "Four depressions" were observed, but no air was inhaled. At birth, the infant's color was normal, but cyanosis appeared shortly after the umbilical cord was tied.

bubble_chart Diagnosis

Although the infant showed no breathing after birth, there were obvious respiratory movements, which can be distinguished from apnea caused by shock or cerebral hemorrhage. The infant's color was normal at birth, and cyanosis only appeared shortly after the umbilical cord was tied, distinguishing it from cardiac cyanosis. The absence of crying sounds and stridor can differentiate it from other laryngeal or tracheal abnormalities.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

If such an infant is not treated immediately, most will die shortly after birth. If a newborn is found to have respiratory movements but no sound or air intake, an infant bronchoscope should be immediately inserted under direct laryngoscopy to puncture the membranous atresia and enter the trachea, providing oxygen and artificial respiration to save the child. In cases of bony atresia, an immediate tracheotomy should be performed.