Tracheal dilatation

Symptoms

A narrowing of the windpipe (tracheal stenosis) usually shows up as breathlessness on exertion, an audible sound when breathing (stridor) or persistent coughing. How severe the symptoms are depends on how narrow the airway has become.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is made by endoscopy of the airways (bronchoscopy), which shows the position and extent of the narrowing; imaging studies complete the assessment.

Treatment

In tracheal dilatation, a catheter with a balloon is guided to the narrowing through a bronchoscope and the balloon is gently inflated. This widens the constricted section of the windpipe and opens the airway again. The procedure is usually carried out under anaesthesia and can be repeated if necessary.

After the procedure

Breathing usually improves straight away. Because a narrowing can recur, regular follow-up examinations of the airways are planned.