Laryngotracheal Resection and Reconstruction

Patients with tracheal stenosis can experience life-threatening dyspnea. When the stenosis is close to the larynx, management can be challenging. Non-definitive palliative measures should be kept to a minimum as they can make definitive management more complicated. Specialized techniques of resection and reconstruction of high tracheal lesions are available, and lead to excellent relief of symptoms. A detailed knowledge of the anatomy, the extent of the stenosis, and careful attention to surgical technique is crucial. Excellent results can be achieved in experienced centers that are able to anticipate and thus avoid complications that can be difficult to manage.