Redundant arytenoid mucosa: clinical presentation, treatment and outcome in three cats

Abstract

Three cats showing chronic, intermittent respiratory distress associated with increased noise on inspiration were examined. Head, neck and thoracic radiographs were unremarkable and laboratory findings were within normal ranges. In all three cats direct laryngoscopy revealed bilateral redundant arytenoid mucosa, which collapsed into the supraglottic and glottis airways during inspiration. Temporary tracheostomy and endoscopic diode laser excision of the excessive mucosa resolved symptoms in all three cats. Redundant arytenoid mucosa is a rare condition that may cause signs similar to laryngeal paralysis or laryngeal mass in cats. According to our results, diode laser surgery in association with temporary tracheostomy appears an appropriate mode of therapy.

Laryngopharyngeal mucosal fold causing upper airway obstruction in a dog

“…Both findings are consistent with those reported with diode laser usage by Dunié-Mérigot and others 21. A likely explanation is that, despite the limited thermal effect reported for diode lasers,12 they still cause variable amounts of heat necrosis to surrounding tissues18 and leave an open wound surface that needs to granulate and epithelialise.…”

“…Furthermore, diode lasers have the ability to cut and vaporise with limited thermal effect. They can be guided through a flexible quartz fibre allowing endoscopic use, with resultant superior visibility and concurrent evacuation of smoke, while ensuring a very precise focal point,12 a distinct advantage when operating in confined areas. Diode lasers have superior coagulation ability compared with longer wavelength lasers above 1400 nm (erbium‐doped yttrium aluminium garnet [Er: YAG] and carbon dioxide [CO 2 ]); however, this comes with the disadvantage of greater peripheral thermal damage to tissues, the extent of which may only become evident hours or days postsurgery 18.…”

“…Displacement of glossoepiglottic mucosa was first described in two dogs by Bedford6 in 1983. Recently, redundant arytenoid mucosa was documented in 16 Norwich terriers11 and three cats 12…”

“…Obstructive airway syndrome has been well described in both brachycephalic and non‐brachycephalic breeds 1–9. Nasopharyngeal dysgenesis, described in seven dachshunds,10 and redundant mucosa originating from or near the laryngeal inlet6 11 12 are rare causes of upper airway obstruction in dogs. Displacement of glossoepiglottic mucosa was first described in two dogs by Bedford6 in 1983.…”