IMPLANTATION OF ELASTIC METAL ENDOPROSTHE SES IN TRACHEAL STENOSES AND TRACHEOMALACIA - 1ST RESULTS IN 4 PATIENTS

Narrowing of the trachea due to tracheomalacia or compression can lead to life-threatening asphyxia and may require tracheotomy with intubat ion or endoscopic introduction of a stent. The use of a self-expanding elastic metal prosthesis in 4 patients with airway obstruction has pr oved a satisfactory alternative to conventional plastic prostheses, bo th in the acute phase and over a long period of time. After 4 weeks to tal epithelium cover of the stent could be demonstrated; biopsies afte r 3 and 4 months showed differentiation into respiratory ciliated epit helium. Patient acceptance was excellent since there was no sensation of a foreign body, retention of secretions or cough. The physical prop erties of the wall stent made it a suitable mechanical replacement for an unstable or narrowed trachea during the period of observation.