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Laryngomalacia (LM) occurs when a piece of soft tissue above a child’s vocal folds falls into the airway when he or she breathes in.
This condition is the most common breathing problem that is present at birth and the most common birth defect of the larynx.
Symptoms of LM include:
Doctors at Riley at IU Health may use the following exams and procedures to diagnose LM:
The majority of children with LM will require no treatment; the noisy breathing usually decreases by age 2. If your child has severe LM, the doctor may recommend a procedure called a supraglottoplasty. Performed in the operating room under surgical anesthesia, the doctor will trim the soft tissue above the vocal folds. This procedure usually helps to reduce, if not eliminate, your child’s noisy breathing. In very rare cases, subsequent surgeries may be needed.
Visit the trusted websites below for more information and support for laryngomalacia.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides helpful information for parents of children with birth defects, including links to support groups.
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.
Pediatric Ear, Nose & Throat
575 Riley Hospital Dr
Indianapolis, IN 46202
