Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic value of comprehensive ultrasound examination of the larynx, including B-mode imaging, Doppler study, and bronchophony assessment, in detecting and characterizing laryngeal stenosis in children of different age groups.
Materials and Methods: The study included 128 children aged from 1 month to 14 years (mean age 5.6 ± 2.8 years) diagnosed with laryngeal stenosis of various origins. All patients underwent a comprehensive ultrasound examination of the larynx to assess structural changes, blood flow parameters, vocal fold mobility, and bronchophony intensity.
Results: Echographic signs of stenosis of grades I–IV were identified in all cases. The mean anteroposterior dimension of the subglottic space decreased with the severity of stenosis: from 4.2 ± 0.5 mm at grade I to 0.9 ± 0.2 mm at grade IV (p < 0.001). A reduction in bronchophony amplitude directly correlated with the severity of respiratory insufficiency (r = 0.71). The sensitivity of the method was 91%, specificity — 88%, and overall diagnostic accuracy — 89%.
Conclusion: Comprehensive ultrasound examination with Doppler study and bronchophony assessment is a highly informative and safe method for diagnosing laryngeal stenosis in children. The technique allows accurate determination of airway narrowing, identification of inflammatory and cicatricial changes, and objective monitoring of treatment effectiveness.