Endobronchial stenting for severe airway obstruction in relapsing polychondritis

Airway complications of relapsing polychondritis (RP), including tracheobro nchial stenosis, can be fatal. This paper describes a life-saving technique (placement of multiple metallic endobronchial stents under conscious sedat ion) to prevent life-threatening airway closure in a 50-year-old woman with RP. Using fluoroscopic and branchoscopic guidance, a tracheal stent and th ree endobronchial metallic stents were deployed in the central airways, wit h good functional outcome. There were no complications. In critical airway compromise caused by RP, the insertion of endobronchial stents can result i n improved symptoms, pulmonary function, and a return to daily activities, without the use of tracheotomy and mechanical ventilation.