Congenital Subglottic Stenosis Treatment in India

Amit Garcia is a 6-month-old boy,...

Amit Garcia is a 6-month-old boy, the first child of young parents who were thrilled but anxious. Since birth, Amit had a weak, high-pitched cry and would often turn blue around his lips during feeding or when he cried hard. His pediatrician initially thought it was reflux, but when a severe cold at 4 months led to a terrifying episode of stridor and respiratory distress, he was rushed to the ER. An ENT specialist diagnosed him with Grade III Congenital Subglottic Stenosis after a microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy. The doctor explained that Amit's airway was dangerously narrow and recommended a Laryngotracheal Reconstruction (LTR) with a cartilage graft to expand his airway. The surgery was long and stressful for his parents. Post-op, Amit spent a week in the PICU, sedated and on a ventilator, followed by two weeks in the hospital. Recovery was slow, with careful monitoring for infection and graft stability. A year later, after a successful decannulation from his temporary tracheostomy, Amit breathes easily, has a strong cry, and is hitting all his milestones. His parents' journey from constant, sleepless anxiety to relieved joy has been transformative; they now advocate for early airway awareness in their community.