Feedback

Tracheal Resection

Robert E. Merritt, Douglas J. Mathisen

Key Points

  • Diseases of the trachea that require surgical resection and reconstruction include idiopathic tracheal stenosis, postintubation injuries, and primary tumors of the trachea.
  • Simple radiologic techniques without use of contrast medium will delineate most pathologic conditions of the trachea.
  • Bronchoscopy is invaluable in determining the extent of airway disease preoperatively.
  • Tracheal strictures need to be serially dilated with pediatric rigid bronchoscopes before endotracheal intubation.
  • Dissection of the trachea remains close to its lateral border to avoid injury to the recurrent laryngeal nerves.
  • The tracheal anastomosis is done with interrupted absorbable suture material (4-0 Vicryl).
  • Anastomotic tension is minimized by neck flexion and traction sutures (2-0 Vicryl).
  • A strap muscle flap is interposed between the tracheal anastomosis and the innominate artery.

There's more to see -- the rest of this topic is available only to subscribers.

Last updated: September 4, 2024