Treatment of infantile bilateral nasal valve stenosis using an endotracheal tube stent.

The nasal valve is an anterior triangular area of the nose delineated by the inferior margin of the nasal lateral cartilage, septum, and floor of the pirif orm aperture. On inspiration, the dilator muscles of the nose elevate the cartilage and permit widening of the anterior airway. Cartilaginous nasal valve stenosis impairs valve dilatation and is a form of nasal obstruction. Since infants are obligate nasal breathers' bilateral nasal obstruction in the neonate is a potentially lifethreatening condition. Prompt diagnosis and management of the airway is essential to avoid serious complications. Diagnosing nasal obstruction in adults consists of a history of respiratory difficulties, which may be followed up with rhinometry.' In children, a history of cyanotic spells relieved by crying, sternal retractions, or feeding difficulties, is common with nasal obstructive disorders. Passing a nasopharyngeal catheter may help locate obstructions and provide a temporary airway. Surgical correction is a more permanent approach to nasal airway management. We describe an interesting and uncommon case of infantile bilateral nasal valve stenosis and one treatment method. The differential diagnosis and pathophysiology are discussed.