Slide Tracheoplasty is a surgical procedure to fix tracheal stenosis, a narrowing of the trachea, that results in obstructed airflow. The narrowed trachea is expanded in order to improve airflow in the obstructed airway.
What is it?
Slide tracheoplasty is a procedure that aims to fix a narrowing of the trachea. This procedure is invasive and requires general anesthesia. The result of a slide tracheoplasty is typically a shorter, but wider, trachea that allows for better airflow.
What should I do to prepare?
Individuals should not consume food within twenty-four hours prior to the procedure and may need to avoid certain dietary supplements and medications. Individuals should also avoid aspirin two weeks prior to the procedure.
What happens during the process?
The patient will be given anesthesia. After that, the surgeon will make a small incision on the neck. Once the neck is open, surgeons will make a cut where the narrowing occurs. The next step is to cut both the top and bottom of the trachea vertically. Then, the top and bottom are connected again creating a wider diameter, but a shorter trachea. Surgeons will sew the neck back together, then the patient will go to the recovery room. Patients will need a breathing tube for a period of time.
What are the risks and potential complications?
A few risks and complications associated with a slide tracheoplasty include, but are not limited to bleeding, infection, damage to the esophagus and blood vessels, and allergic reactions to anesthesia.
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Image Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Trachea_(transparent).png