Factors affecting the development of recurrence in patients who underwent tracheal resection due to tracheal stenosis

This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of surgical treatment of post-intubation tracheal stenosis cases and to identify factors associated with recurrence and treatment success.

Between January 2010 and December 2024, a total of 56 patients (38 males, 18 females; mean age: 49.1±14.8 years; range, 24 to 61 years) who were treated for postintubation tracheal stenosis were retrospectively analyzed. Data were collected using a standardized data extraction form. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, comorbidities, surgical procedures, and postoperative outcomes of the patients were recorded.

Comorbidities, particularly diabetes, were common in the majority of patients. Recurrence occurred in 14 (25%) of the cohort. Early mortality was observed in one (1.7%) patient. Middle tracheal stenosis as the site of stenosis and the use of 3/0 Vicryl separating sutures had higher recurrence rates. The mean length of the removed segment was 3.7±0.7 cm in patients without recurrence, while it was 3.2±0.5 cm in patients with recurrence (p=0.361). While the recurrence rate was 71.4% among patients with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, epilepsy, and Crohn's disease, this rate was 28.6% in those without comorbidities (p<0.001), and the presence of comorbidities significantly increased the likelihood of recurrence (odds ratio [OR]=9.167, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.482-24.134, p<0.001).

Surgical treatment of post-intubation tracheal stenosis presents challenges due to the high recurrence rate, particularly in patients with comorbidities. Individualized treatment approaches, meticulous surgical techniques, and comprehensive postoperative care are essential to improve patient outcomes.