[Endobronchial prosthesis: experience report]

Between January 1988 and December 1990 a total of 84 endobronchial prosthesis were implanted in 55 patients at the Ruhrlandklinik, Essen. Bronchial carcinoma (33/55) was the leading indication for placing an endoluminal stent. Since the technique of implantation seldom leads to serious complications, non-malignant tracheobronchial stenosis and malacia play an increasing role in airway stenting. Implantation was usually performed under general anaesthesia and through rigid tube bronchoscopes with enlarged diameters. Most frequently a flexible silicone stent (Dumon) was used, Montgomery (5/84), Gianturco (5/84), Orlowski (4/84) and Strecker stents were also implanted. The respiratory gain was greatest in central stenosis, 79/84 stents were positioned into trachea or main stem bronchus. Permanent and temporary stenting were performed with success. Dislocation and hemoptysis seldom occur, mucus plugging and incrustation were more frequent complications.