Tracheal and bronchial stenosis is narrowing of the trachea and bronchi, causing obstruction to airflow. Causes include post-intubation, post-tracheostomy, infections, trauma, tumors, autoimmune diseases, and congenital tracheal stenosis. Symptoms include shortness of breath, wheezing, stridor, chronic cough, and recurrent respiratory infections.The diagnosis involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies, and bronchoscopy. Imaging studies like CT scans can visualize narrowed airways, while bronchoscopy allows for direct visualization, assessment, and tissue samples for biopsy. Pulmonary function tests measure lung capacity and airflow, providing objective evidence of airway obstruction.
Tracheal and bronchial stenosis treatment depends on the cause, location, and severity of the narrowing. For mild cases, conservative management with medications like corticosteroids may be sufficient. For more significant stenoses, more invasive interventions are typically required. Tracheobronchoscopic tracheoplasty is a minimally invasive approach that uses a rigid or flexible bronchoscope to visualize and treat the narrowed airway. Techniques used include balloon dilation, laser therapy, and stent placement. The technique selection depends on the nature and location of the stenosis. Tracheobronchoscopic tracheoplasty offers advantages over open surgical repair, such as reduced trauma, shorter recovery time, and fewer complications. However, it may not be suitable for all types of stenoses, especially complex or long-segment narrowings.
Mrs. Mpundu Chisha Mumba from Zambia successfully underwent Tracheobronchoscopic Tracheoplasty for Severe Tracheal & Bronchus Stenosis at Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, under the supervision of Dr. V Nagarjuna Maturu, Senior Consultant, Clinical and Interventional Pulmonology.