Utility of Tracheobronchial Stents in Mechanically Ventilated Patients with Central Airway Obstruction

Abstract

We describe three patients with severe central airway obstruction requiring mechanical ventilation who had tracheobronchial stents placed to remove them from the ventilator. This was achieved successfully in two of the three patients. All patients underwent the procedure using flexible bronchoscopy under fluoroscopic guidance. Schneider Wallstents were used in all patients. We add this experience to the previously published material of 14 ventilator-dependent patients managed with a variety of tracheobronchial stents. Infection, granuloma formation with persistent coughing, and retained secretions appear to be the major complications. The average lifespan for patients with malignant obstructions is between 2 and 3 months. In the treatment of pulmonary malignancies causing airway compromise, the utility of tracheobronchial stents even in those patients requiring mechanical ventilation, can enhance the quality of life.