Tracheobronchoplasty

Tracheobronchoplasty is a surgical procedure that is used to treat excessive dynamic airway collapse (EDAC). This condition is characterized by the excessive collapse of the airways during exhalation, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, cough, and fatigue.

Overview

Tracheobronchoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves the placement of mesh on the posterior wall of the trachea and main bronchi to prevent their collapse. This procedure is typically performed in patients with severe EDAC who have not responded to other treatments.

Procedure

During a tracheobronchoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the trachea and bronchi. A mesh is then placed on the posterior wall of these structures to provide support and prevent collapse. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and may require a hospital stay of several days for recovery.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, tracheobronchoplasty carries risks. These may include infection, bleeding, and complications related to anesthesia. In addition, there is a risk of injury to the trachea or bronchi during the procedure. Patients should discuss these risks with their doctor before deciding to undergo tracheobronchoplasty.

Aftercare and Recovery

After the procedure, patients may need to stay in the hospital for several days for monitoring. They may also need to take medications to manage pain and prevent infection. Follow-up appointments with the doctor will be necessary to monitor healing and assess the effectiveness of the procedure.

See Also

• Excessive Dynamic Airway Collapse
• Trachea
• Bronchi
• Surgery
• Anesthesia