Amyloidosis
Disorder in which the body deposits a certain type of protein in a variety of tissues. The deposits may cause the growth of benign masses. The cause of this disorder is unknown.
Wegener’s granulomatosis
Inflammatory condition affecting kidneys and lungs and sometimes the upper respiratory tract. Treatment is generally aimed at suppressing the immune system.
Sarcoidosis
Chronic disorder of unknown cause which has a variety of manifestations, including the development of benign masses along the upper respiratory tract and in the chest. This disorder is often treated with drugs that suppress the immune system.
CO 2 Laser
A type of laser commonly used in surgery. This particular type of laser cuts very superficially and causes little damage to surrounding tissues in the correct hands.
Injection Augmentation
kind of laryngoplasty that is performed using some form of injectable materials. This can be done in the office setting or in the operating room.
Laryngotracheal Reconstruction
Advanced technique used in patients with narrowed airways. This technique is designed to enlarge the airway
Tracheostomy
Surgical technique involving placement of a tube through the front of the neck into the trachea. This tube allows the patient to breathe if there is a blockage above the insertion point. Tracheostomy is also used in certain instances during a hospital stay for sick patients and for certain types of cancer patients.
Aspiration
Food or liquid passing the wrong into the windpipe.
Barium
Chalky material used when performing certain types of X-ray tests. This material shows up on X-rays and can be used to demonstrate abnormalities of internal organs.
Botulinum Toxin (Botox)
This is actually a toxin produced by a bacterium which causes muscle paralysis. Used in a diluted dose, this toxin can be useful for certain disorders affecting muscles
CT scan
Also known as a CAT scan, this imaging technique utilizes x-rays to provide detailed images of internal structures.
Endoscope
A medical device used to examine internal structures. This device is usually based on fiberoptic technology.
Endoscopy
Technique used to examine internal structures using an endoscope.
Oesophagoscopy
Term used to describe a procedure in which an endoscope is passed into the esophagus to visualize the lining.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
This refers to a disorder in which acid refluxed from the stomach gets into the esophagus and causes symptoms of injury.
Graft
Tissue or other material used during reconstruction to add structure or bulk, or to resurface an area.
Intubation
Placement of a breathing tube, either during surgery or while a patient is on a ventilator. The breathing tube is placed through the vocal cords into the trachea (windpipe), and provides a route to deliver oxygen to the lungs.
Paralysis
Total non-functioning of a muscle due to a lack or blockage of the nerve supply.
Paresis
Partial paralysis.
Stent
Medical device used to maintain an opening within tissue. Examples include stents used in blood vessels in the heart to maintain blood flow in previously blocked arteries, or stent to maintain patency of the airway.
Trachea
Medical term for windpipe. The trachea connects the lungs to the voice box.
Tracheoesophageal Fistula
A condition in which a hole is formed between the normally separated trachea and esophagus. This problem can lead to food or liquid abnormally entering the lungs, resulting in a chronic cough or recurrent pneumonia.
Tracheoscopy
Endoscopy of the trachea.
