DIAGNOSTIC VALUE OF COMPREHENSIVE ULTRASOUND EXAMINATION IN THE DETECTION AND ASSESSMENT OF LARYNGEAL STENOSIS

Laryngeal stenosis in children represents a serious and potentially life-threatening condition characterised by narrowing of the upper airway and progressive respiratory impairment. Early and accurate diagnosis of the degree and nature of airway obstruction is essential for timely treatment and prevention of severe complications. However, conventional diagnostic methods such as laryngoscopy and computed tomography are often limited in pediatric patients due to their invasiveness, need for anaesthesia, and radiation exposure. In this context, ultrasound examination of the larynx has emerged as a promising noninvasive diagnostic alternative. This study highlights the diagnostic value of a comprehensive ultrasound approach combining B-mode imaging, Doppler assessment, and bronchophony analysis in the evaluation of laryngeal stenosis in children. Grey-scale ultrasound enables detailed visualisation of laryngeal anatomy, assessment of subglottic airway dimensions, and identification of structural changes such as mucosal oedema, granulation tissue, and cicatricial alterations. Doppler imaging provides additional information on local vascularisation, allowing differentiation between inflammatory and fibrotic forms of stenosis. Functional assessment using bronchophony analysis offers an objective evaluation of sound transmission and airway patency, reflecting the severity of respiratory compromise. The combined use of structural, vascular, and functional ultrasound parameters allows accurate grading of laryngeal stenosis and facilitates dynamic monitoring of disease progression and treatment response. Due to its safety, repeatability, and absence of radiation, comprehensive ultrasound examination is particularly valuable in pediatric practice. The integration of this method into routine diagnostic algorithms may reduce the need for invasive procedures and improve clinical decision-making in children with laryngeal stenosis.