Rigid Bronchoscopy and Tracheostomy Compared to Repeated Dilatation of Tracheal Stenosis Prior to Tracheal Resection and Anastomosis; A Pilot Study

The aim of the study was to compare the results of tracheostomy of the site of stenosis and repeated RB & D in previously published papers. Material and methods. This prospective study examined the treatment of tracheal stenosis with tracheostomy at the site of stenosis. The recurrence rates, duration of hospitalization before and after tracheal resection, the number of tracheal rings removed, prognosis,and complications were evaluated. Results. It seems that a tracheostomy at the site of stenosis instead of repeated RB & D reduces the recurrence rate and duration of hospital stay, the need for a constant presence of a chest surgeon in the hospital, hospitalization costs. Also, the implementation of this method is possible in more centers. Conclusion. Tracheostomy at the site of tracheal stenosis can reduce the recurrence rate of stenosis, and prevent prolonged hospitalization, repeated anesthesia and inappropriate emergency tracheostomy.