Tracheobronchial intervention in children

Clare A McLaren1, Martin J Elliott, Derek J Roebuck

  • 1Tracheal Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London WC1N 3JH, UK. mclarc@gosh.nhs.uk

Insights

Interventional radiology aids in diagnosing and treating pediatric airway disorders. A multidisciplinary team approach is crucial for managing complex cases, combining surgical and minimally invasive techniques.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Interventional Radiology
  • Cardiothoracic Surgery

Background:

  • Pediatric airway disorders present significant treatment challenges.
  • Interventional radiology offers advanced solutions for assessment and intervention.
  • Cardiovascular anomalies frequently coexist with airway obstruction.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of interventional radiology in pediatric airway disorders.
  • To highlight diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.
  • To emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach.

Main Methods:

  • Flexible bronchoscopy and bronchography for diagnosis and intervention.
  • Advanced imaging like echocardiography, CT, and MRI for associated anomalies.
  • Surgical and minimally invasive techniques including balloon dilatation and stenting.

Main Results:

  • Interventional radiology is effective for assessing and treating pediatric airway issues.
  • Surgery is primary for congenital airway and cardiac anomalies.
  • Minimally invasive procedures complement surgical outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • A collaborative, multidisciplinary team is essential for optimal management.
  • Interventional radiology significantly enhances treatment options for pediatric airway diseases.
  • Integrated care improves outcomes for children with complex airway obstructions.

Related Concept Videos

Trachea01:22

Trachea

The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is a vital part of the human respiratory system. It serves as a passageway for air to travel between the larynx and the bronchi, allowing oxygen to reach the lungs. Let's explore its anatomical features, dimensions, layers of the tracheal wall, associated muscles, and the functions of its parts.
Anatomical Features:
Location: About half of the trachea is situated in the neck, anterior to the esophagus, and extends from the larynx (at the level of the...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques01:30

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation V: Advanced Airway Management Techniques

Airway management is essential in emergency and surgical medicine, ensuring ventilation and oxygenation in patients who cannot maintain their own airway. Clinicians use a range of techniques and devices to secure the airway, depending on the patient’s condition and the clinical context. Key methods include endotracheal intubation, rapid sequence intubation (RSI), supraglottic airway devices, and advanced visualization aids. In cases where these approaches fail, surgical airway interventions are...
Endotracheal Intubation I: Procedure01:15

Endotracheal Intubation I: Procedure

Endotracheal or ET intubation is a critical medical procedure used to secure a patient's airway, often in acute respiratory distress, apnea, upper airway obstruction, ineffective clearance of secretions, high risk for aspiration, or during general anesthesia.
The ET tube comprises various components, including a standard adaptor to attach a bag-valve-mask (BVM) or ventilator, a cuff, a pilot balloon, and radiopaque markings along its length to measure the insertion distance. The tube sizes...
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen01:16

Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen

Oxygen therapy is a pivotal aspect of medical care, particularly for patients with respiratory ailments. Two prominent oxygen-delivering systems include the Venturi mask and the transtracheal oxygen catheter.
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy01:30

Endoscopic Studies I: Bronchoscopy and Thoracoscopy

Endoscopy is a non-surgical medical technique used to examine a person's internal organs and vessels. This lesson will focus on two types of endoscopic studies: bronchoscopy and thoracoscopy.
Bronchoscopy
Description
Bronchoscopy is a procedure that involves direct visualization of the larynx, trachea, and bronchi for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. A flexible fiber optic or rigid bronchoscope is used to carry out the procedure. The fiber-optic bronchoscope is more frequently used due to...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management01:22

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management

Airway management is a key skill in emergency and critical care settings, as maintaining a clear airway is essential for adequate oxygenation and ventilation.Head Tilt-Chin Lift TechniqueThe head tilt-chin lift maneuver is an essential technique primarily used in patients without suspected cervical spine injuries. To perform this maneuver, one hand is placed on the patient’s forehead, and gentle pressure is applied backward to tilt the head. The fingertips of the other hand are positioned under...