Choanal Atresia and Choanal Stenosis

Congenital narrowing of the nasal airway at the posterior choanae, which can be uni- or bilateral, is an uncommon condition in pediatric patients. The surgical management of choanal atresia varies widely in different centers. This article discusses the different surgical strategies including: dilation and stenting; trans-palatal repair; and transnasal resection utilizing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) techniques. The merits of stents, lasers, CT-guided surgery, and the use of additional agents including mitomycin C are reviewed, as well as the particular problems associated with managing bilateral choanal atresia in neonates.