Stent placement for tracheobronchial disease.

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Radiology
• Interventional Endoscopy

Background:

• Historically, airway stenoses and occlusions required risky open surgical repair (thoracotomy/sternotomy).
• Advancements in rigid and flexible bronchoscopy have enabled endoluminal stent placement as a primary treatment modality.
• Tracheobronchial stent placement is now a cornerstone for managing benign and malignant airway obstructions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of airway stent placement.
• To discuss the historical evolution, indications, contraindications, and techniques for airway stenting.
• To highlight the critical role of imaging in pre- and post-procedural evaluation and complication detection.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical surgical and endoluminal treatments for airway disease.
• Discussion of current indications, contraindications, advantages, and limitations of airway stent therapy.
• Emphasis on procedural details, imaging evaluation, and follow-up protocols.

Main Results:

• Airway stenting has evolved as a less invasive alternative to open surgery.
• Interventional pulmonologists primarily perform stent placement, but interventional radiologists offer valuable expertise.
• Radiologists play a crucial role in imaging complex airway anatomy and managing complications.

Conclusions:

• Airway stent placement is an effective endoluminal treatment for tracheobronchial disease.
• Collaboration between interventional pulmonologists and radiologists is essential for optimal patient outcomes.
• Awareness of airway anatomy and potential complications is vital for radiologists involved in patient care.