Laryngeal Cleft

Laryngeal Cleft Overview

Laryngeal cleft is a rare abnormality of the separation between the larynx, or voice box, and the esophagus that occurs in less than one percent of the population.

When the larynx develops normally, it is completely separate from the esophagus. This allows swallowed foods to go directly into the stomach. A laryngeal cleft creates an opening between the larynx and the esophagus which can cause a danger of food and liquid going into the airway tube when a child swallows. Eating and breathing problems can be a result of this condition.

Children are born with a laryngeal cleft, which means it is present at birth (congenital). The cause is unknown, however, the abnormality happens during early months of pregnancy.

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a pediatric otolaryngologist, call 314.454.5437 or 800.678.5437 or email us.

Types of Laryngeal Cleft

Depending on the size of the gap between the esophagus and the airway, the cleft can vary from mild to severe. The following are types of laryngeal clefts:

Type I: The gap is located above the vocal cords (the mildest type).
Type II: The cleft extends below the vocal cords into the lower cartilage of the voice box.
Type III: The cleft extends beyond the voice box and into the trachea (windpipe).
Type IV: The cleft extends even further down into the windpipe, and may go all the way to the bottom of the trachea (the most severe type).

Signs and Symptoms of Laryngeal Cleft

If your child has laryngeal cleft, you will most likely notice swallowing problems. Additional symptoms of this condition are:

Coughing
Choking or gagging while eating
Poor weight gain
Hoarseness
Frequent respiratory infections
Aspiration (food or liquid entering lungs)
Gastric esophageal reflux
Chronic lung disease
Trouble breathing:
- Shortness of breath
- Short pauses when breathing (apnea)
- Noisy breathing (stridor)

For more information or to schedule an appointment with a pediatric otolaryngologist, call 314.454.5437 or 800.678.5437 or email us.

Laryngeal Cleft Diagnosis

Laryngeal cleft is diagnosed through a comprehensive digestive evaluation while the child is under anesthesia. At times, a child may need other x-rays or tests to evaluate for aspiration or other abnormalities.