Tracheobronchoplasty

Tracheobronchoplasty is a surgical procedure aimed at widening or reconstructing the trachea (windpipe) and bronchi (airways leading to the lungs). This operation is typically performed when these airways become narrowed or obstructed, making breathing difficult. Common causes for such narrowing include tracheobronchomalacia, a condition where the airway walls are weak and prone to collapse, or post-intubation tracheal stenosis, a narrowing that can occur after prolonged use of a breathing tube.

The procedure involves various techniques depending on the specific location and severity of the airway narrowing. Surgeons may use grafts of tissue, either from the patient's own body or from a donor, to reinforce or enlarge the airway. In some cases, a portion of the damaged airway may be removed and the healthy ends reconnected. Stents, which are small tubes that help keep the airway open, can also be used temporarily or permanently.

The goal of tracheobronchoplasty is to restore normal airflow to the lungs, alleviating symptoms such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, and noisy breathing. Recovery time varies depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's overall health. Post-operative care often includes monitoring for complications and rehabilitation to improve breathing capacity. While effective, tracheobronchoplasty is a complex surgery with potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and recurrence of airway narrowing.