Posterior Mesh Tracheoplasty for Cervical Tracheomalacia: A Novel Trachea-Preserving Technique

Abstract

Tracheal resection or placement of airway prostheses (stents, tracheostomy tubes, or T tubes) are techniques currently used to treat severe cervical tracheomalacia. We have developed a new technique to secure a polypropylene splint to the posterior membrane of the cervical trachea in a patient with diffuse, acquired tracheobronchomalacia. This novel posterior tracheoplasty avoids anastomotic and intraluminal adverse events that may occur with existing techniques.