Laryngotomy

Laryngotomy is the surgical operation of cutting into the larynx, possibly with specialized equipment such as a laryngotome. The surgical creation of a permanent opening in the larynx is referred to as laryngostomy. Laryngotomy is an important procedure in assisting respiration when the upper part of the airway has been obstructed.


 * For inferior laryngotomy or emergency laryngotomy, see Cricothyrotomy.
 * For median laryngotomy involving cutting of the thyroid cartilage, see Thyrotomy.