Acute management of airway compromise in cancer

Major airway obstruction is a frightening complication of thoracic tumors. Patient presentation may be abrupt. They may experience profound dyspnea, post-obstructive pneumonia, respiratory failure, or progress to death. Immediate relief of obstruction can be accomplished by bronchoscopy with laser or stenting in most patients. Such interventions can improve the quality of life and longevity of these patients and must be considered in the initial treatment of patients with airway obstruction.