Tracheal Stenosis
Tracheal stenosis is a stricture in the trachea by either known or unknown reasons.
Risk factors include precipitating events, lesions, or infections. Specific examples include, but are not limited to: blunt trauma, inhalation injury, previous tracheostomy, goiter, mass, and infections such as tuberculosis or histoplasmosis.
Signs and symptoms:
- Progressive coughing
- Worsening shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Hemoptysis (bloody sputum)
- Hoarseness
Surgical Interventions:
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Tracheal Dilation
A bronchoscopy is performed to visualize the trachea and, then the surgeon either uses a rigid bronchoscope or a balloon dilator in attempt to open the stricture.
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Stent/T-tube placement
A tracheal stent can be placed in order to manage an airway stricture and is usually placed during a bronchoscopy. A T tube is a type of stent that passes through the airway stricture and has an extra-luminal end.
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Tracheal Resection
Tracheal resection is a surgery where the damaged portion of the trachea is removed.