Tongue Edema Secondary to Suspension Laryngoscopy

Abstract

Objectives: Suspension microlaryngoscopy (SML) is generally a safe, same-day procedure. Complications have been linked to prolonged operative time and substantial force applied to the tongue. This report of two cases describes marked tongue edema following SML, a complication not yet reported in the literature.

Methods: This is a retrospective review of two cases of severe tongue edema following SML. We reviewed the literature for similar reports and proposed treatment plans.

Results: Two patients, age 67 and 75, underwent SML for an interval of 247 minutes and 224 minutes for patient 1 and patient 2 respectively. Both developed severe tongue edema requiring inpatient monitoring and steroids. In both patients, the edema improved over several days and returned to baseline. There are no reported cases of this complication in the literature.

Conclusion: Prolonged SML can lead to tongue edema requiring close airway monitoring. The edema was self-limited and resolved with steroids and close monitoring.

Keywords: Laryngology; Suspension microlaryngoscopy; Tongue edema.