Tracheal stenosis is a narrowing of the trachea that ultimately leads to breathing problem. This is the result of scar tissue that forms in a person’s trachea after trauma, such as prolonged intubation or a tracheostomy, as well as radiation therapy for the treatment of cancer. Dr. McKenna is skilled in treating tracheal stenosis and restoring your trachea back to its original state.
There are four options available to treat tracheal stenosis. Each one offers benefits and drawbacks. Dr. McKenna uses caution and his expertise to determine which option is best for his patients. There is no one size fits all solution.
Tracheal Reconstruction and Resection
During this procedure, Dr. McKenna will surgically remove the portion of the trachea that is constricted and the reconnect the healthy sections. We’ve seen exceptional long-term results with this surgery and commonly recommend it to patients that we believe it is a fit for.
Bronchoscopic Tracheal Dilation
Through this procedure, we widen the trachea through the use of a balloon or instrument known as a tracheal dilator. This is a temporary solution that gives us a better idea of the overall condition of the trachea and can also allow us to understand what is causing the stenosis if we don’t know.
Laser Bronchoscopy
This is an option that Dr. McKenna uses sparingly as if used on the wrong patient it can worsen the stenosis. Laser surgery, in every case, is a short-term solution that provides temporary relief. We only use this solution if Dr. McKenna understands what the underlying problems of a patient are and can determine if this is truly the best solution or not.
Tracheobronchial Airway Stent
This is both a long-term and short-term solution that uses a metal or silicone tube to keep the airway open by providing additional support. This is another solution that the doctor uses with caution as not everyone is a candidate for a stent.
If you are suffering from tracheal stenosis and are looking for a treatment that will provide you with relief, contact us. Dr. McKenna has extensive experience treating tracheal stenosis and will help determine which solution is best for your unique needs.