A case of floppy epiglottis in adult: A simple surgical remedy

A new operative technique for the treatment of floppy epiglottis is introduced in this report. Though its diagnosis is not so difficult by close observations using a flexible fiberscope, it is likely to be treated as an asthma attack or a paradoxical vocal cord movement. In previous reports of upper airway obstruction caused by adult floppy epiglottis: epiglottis prolapse during inspiration, the cause of this condition has been divided broadly into two categories: idiopathic cases and secondary cases. Partial or total epiglottectomy has been usually reported for the treatment of the relief of airway obstruction caused by a floppy epiglottis. It is very difficult to decide adequately how much volume of epiglottis to cut without postoperative sequelae. A V-shaped partial epiglottidectomy is described for its treatment. This technique is very easy, simple, and effective.