Tracheal Stenosis
What is tracheal stenosis?
Tracheal stenosis is a narrowing of the trachea (windpipe) that is caused by an injury or a birth defect:
- Acquired tracheal stenosis (narrowing from injury) is a reaction to repeated irritation by something, such as a breathing tube. It may also be a reaction to tissue injury caused by the pressure of a breathing tube cuff.
- Congenital tracheal stenosis (narrowing due to a birth defect) is a rare condition in which the cartilage "rings" in the trachea, normally two half-round pieces of cartilage facing one another, fuse together into solid rings during fetal development. This makes the airway very narrow and prevents it from growing.
What are the signs of tracheal stenosis?
- Noisy breathing
- Recurring pneumonia
- Wheezing
How is tracheal stenosis treated?
Treatment depends upon the severity of the condition and may include:
- Observation -- Regular doctor's visits and monitoring.
- Tracheal resection and primary anastamosis -- Surgery in which the trachea (windpipe) is cut open and repaired. In this surgery, the damaged part of the trachea is removed and the remaining ends are joined together.
- Slide tracheoplasty -- Surgery used for congenital tracheal stenosis. In this surgery, the narrow part of the trachea is cut through horizontally. Then, vertical incisions are made in the front of the lower section and in the back of the upper section. Finally, the two sections are slid together so they overlap and are attached, providing a wider tracheal opening.
Contact us
For more information about the conditions we treat or for help with airway problems, please contact us at 215-590-3440 and ask for the Airway Center coordinator.
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