Management of trauma-induced exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction
Despite intensive therapy, the patient remained breathless on exertion. A diagnosis of exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) secondary to trauma was suspected. Continuous laryngoscopy during exercise (CLE) test(3) was performed and revealed a prolapse of the left arytenoid, which increased with exercise intensity.
He subsequently underwent a left arytenoidectomy five weeks after the injury. Post-operative therapy was tailored to support a phased return to fitness training. Attention was given to maintaining core breathing patterns, in combination with effective laryngeal manoeuvres to maximise glottal aperture, confirmed on laryngoscopy. He made his return to training one month after surgery.
The CARE case report guidelines were used when writing this report.