Subglottic Hemangioma

Subglottic hemangioma is a rare condition that can be potentially life threatening because of airway obstruction. It is common for subglottic hemangioma to be misdiagnosed as croup initially. Infants with a subglottic hemangioma and cutaneous facial hemangiomas in a “beard” distribution should be evaluated for PHACE syndrome. Endoscopic laser resection is effective for subglottic hemangioma but carries a chance of subglottic stenosis, up to 25%. Open excision of subglottic hemangioma is an excellent option, particularly in patients with bilateral or circumferential subglottic hemangioma. It is a more extensive surgery when compared with endoscopic laser resection. Surgeons who do not have access to a pediatric intensive care unit staffed by experienced pediatric intensivists should not use this procedure.