Pulmonary Procedure

Tracheal and Bronchial Stenting

Closure of Tracheobronchial Fistula (TBF) is a medical procedure aimed at repairing an abnormal connection between the trachea (windpipe) or bronchi (large airways) and adjacent structures like the esophagus, pleural space, or other parts of the airway. A tracheobronchial fistula can cause severe respiratory complications by allowing air or fluids to pass between these structures, leading to infection, respiratory distress, or aspiration.

Causes of Tracheobronchial Fistula:

• Trauma: Injury from surgery, intubation, or chest trauma.
• Cancer: Tumors in the lungs, esophagus, or trachea that erode into surrounding tissues.
• Infections: Severe respiratory infections like tuberculosis or pneumonia.
• Congenital defects: Some people are born with tracheoesophageal fistulas.
• Prolonged mechanical ventilation: Long-term intubation can lead to pressure-induced damage and fistula formation.

Symptoms:

Patients with a tracheobronchial fistula may experience:

• Chronic cough
• Recurrent pneumonia or lung infections
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Severe breathing difficulties
• Aspiration of food or liquids into the lungs

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to close the fistula and restore normal airway and digestive function. Treatment options vary depending on the size and location of the fistula, as well as the underlying cause.

• Surgical Repair
• Endoscopic Procedure
• Stent Placement