Tracheal obstruction in achalasia: a role for airway stenting?

We describe an 82-year-old woman who presented with acute tracheal obstruction secondary to advanced, asymptomatic achalasia. Conventional treatment of her achalasia failed to relieve recurrent episodes of airway obstruction requiring endotracheal intubation. Because she was not fit for an operation, a Gianturco endotracheal stent was placed bronchoscopically. She remains without respiratory or upper gastrointestinal symptoms 2 years later. Recent information regarding the pathophysiology and surgical treatment of this complication is reviewed.