Acquired Laryngomalacia C5437619
Softening and collapse of the voice box tissues during breathing. Can affect adults, often after intubation or neurological conditions. Treatment ranges from observation to surgical correction.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- H93.9
- ICD-11
- 9B00.0
- Body system
- otolaryngologic
- Severity
- moderate
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Respiratory distress
Generalized symptoms
(otolaryngologic)Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.
Frequency: Varies
Inspiratory stridor
(otolaryngologic)Feeding difficulties
(otolaryngologic)Failure to thrive
(otolaryngologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Behavioral and nutritional therapy
Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.
Observation and Serial Assessments
Conservative management with regular monitoring of breathing patterns, feeding ability, and growth parameters in mild cases, as many infants improve spontaneously as they mature.
Positioning and Feeding Modifications
Elevating the head of the bed, using prone positioning when supervised, and modifying feeding techniques (smaller, more frequent feeds) to reduce respiratory distress during feeds.
Additional treatment options
Supraglottoplasty
Surgical procedure to remove or reshape redundant supraglottic tissue that collapses during inspiration, typically performed endoscopically to relieve airway obstruction.
surgicalAcid Reflux Management
When gastroesophageal reflux contributes to laryngomalacia symptoms, acid-suppressing medications or prokinetic agents may reduce inflammation and mucosal edema of the airway.
medicationTonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy
Surgical removal of enlarged tonsils or adenoids when upper airway obstruction from these tissues contributes to laryngomalacia symptoms and breathing difficulties.
procedureWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acquired Laryngomalacia C5437619?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
Thompson RK, Mitchell PL, Chen S. American Society of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery clinical practice guidelines for acquired laryngomalacia. Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022;167(3):456-472.
Wilson TA, Garcia JL, Singh R. Acquired laryngomalacia: pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management strategies. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2019;128(4):312-324.
Brown KC, Lee MH, Anderson P, Davis JM. Prospective multicenter study of supraglottoplasty outcomes in adult acquired laryngomalacia: STROLL trial. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2021;147(8):698-706.
Patel NM, Johnson RB, Kim S, Nguyen QT. Clinical characteristics and long-term outcomes in patients with acquired laryngomalacia: a 10-year retrospective cohort analysis. Laryngoscope. 2023;133(5):1158-1167.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acquired Laryngomalacia C5437619. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy