Correction of segmental tracheal stenosis in children

Segmental tracheal stenosis in children may be either acquired or congenital in nature. Acquired injuries usually involve a previous tracheostomy site or an area just superior to the carina. Congenital stenosis may occur in any location and often is associated with pulmonary agenesis. Surgical correction may be undertaken relatively safely in children of any age by segmental resection. We report three patients ranging in age from 4 weeks to 3 years who were corrected successfully. The use of cardiopulmonary bypass may be indicated, especially in young infants, to facilitate resection.