Bronchoplasty

Bronchoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to repair or reconstruct the bronchus, which are the airways that branch off the trachea (windpipe) and lead to the lungs. This operation is typically undertaken to address conditions that obstruct or damage the bronchi, affecting a patient's ability to breathe effectively.

The primary indications for bronchoplasty include the removal of tumors that have invaded or are compressing the bronchi, the repair of strictures or narrowings caused by inflammation or scarring, and the treatment of congenital abnormalities of the airway. In some cases, bronchoplasty may be performed in conjunction with lung resection surgery, such as a lobectomy or pneumonectomy, to ensure the remaining airway is functional and unobstructed.

The surgical technique for bronchoplasty varies depending on the specific issue being addressed. It can involve removing a diseased segment of the bronchus and rejoining the healthy ends, using grafts to bridge gaps or repair defects, or widening narrowed areas. The procedure can be performed using open surgery or minimally invasive techniques like video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS), which offers advantages such as smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

Potential complications of bronchoplasty can include airway leakage, bleeding, infection, and the recurrence of the original problem. The success of bronchoplasty is evaluated by assessing the patient's breathing function and ensuring the airway remains open and patent. This surgical intervention aims to preserve lung function and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from bronchial pathologies.