Functional evaluation of tracheal stenosis before and after surgical management

14 patients affected by tracheal stenosis resulting from assisted ventilation underwent a tracheal resection (n = 12) or dilatation (n = 2). Lung function tests were performed before and after surgical treatment. Prior to surgery, we observed a significant increase in airway resistance (Raw) in all subjects and a negative exponential relationship between Raw and FEV1/VC. Expiratory flows were also reduced with an increase in FEV1/PEFR ratios. After surgical correction of the stenosis, Raw normalized in 10 out of 14 subjects. The observed changes were more significant than for the other functional tests. After surgery, the patient's follow-up with Raw allowed the diagnosis of recurrent stenosis in 4 subjects lacking significant clinical symptoms. We conclude that measurement of Raw helps the clinical diagnosis and the appreciation of the possible changes in airway permeability after the surgical procedure.