Endoscopic treatment of tracheal stenosis

Endoscopic treatment of subglottic and tracheal stenosis has traditionally been reserved for short-segment and web-like stenoses with normal cartilaginous structure. In light of recent study of definitive endoscopic treatment for circumferential and complete tracheal stenosis with loss of cartilaginous support, severe and complete tracheal stenoses may be successfully treated endoscopically using the techniques and adjunctive measures described here. Definitive endoscopic treatment may be considered before tracheal resection in select cases. Endoscopic treatment is associated with few complications, low morbidity, short operative time, and length of hospitalization.