Keuhkosiirtoputkien

Keuhkosiirtoputkien, known in English as tracheobronchial prostheses or airway stents, are medical devices used to maintain the patency of the trachea and bronchi. They are typically inserted when a patient's airway has become narrowed or blocked due to various conditions such as cancerous tumors, benign strictures, or post-surgical complications. The primary goal of these prostheses is to restore airflow, alleviate breathing difficulties, and improve the patient's quality of life.

These devices are often made of biocompatible materials like silicone or metal alloys. They are inserted endoscopically, meaning through a bronchoscope, which is a flexible tube with a camera inserted into the airways. The procedure is minimally invasive and allows for direct visualization of the airway during stent placement. Keuhkosiirtoputkien come in various shapes and sizes to accommodate the specific anatomy and pathology of each patient. Some stents are designed to be removable, while others are permanent.

The insertion of a keuhkosiirtoputki can provide immediate relief from symptoms like dyspnea (shortness of breath), cough, and hemoptysis (coughing up blood). However, potential complications can include stent migration, infection, granulation tissue formation, and re-stenosis. Regular follow-up examinations are crucial to monitor the stent's position and function and to manage any adverse effects. The decision to use a keuhkosiirtoputki is made by a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals, including pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, and oncologists.