Endoscopic Removal of Uncovered Metallic Airway Stents.

Background: Self-expandable uncovered metallic stents (SEUMS) have been used in benign tracheobronchial stenosis. Stent complications may require risky removal due to SEUMS integration in the tracheobronchial wall. Our study aims to report techniques, including a novel one, and outcomes of SEUMS removal by rigid bronchoscopy.

Endoscopic management of adult subglottic stenosis: an alternative to open surgery.

Purpose: Various surgical techniques could be used to treat subglottic stenosis (SGS). The aim of this study is to present our experience in endoscopic management of SGS and show the impact of symptoms' evaluation, clinical examination and spirometry in the therapeutic decision.

Methods: Endoscopic treatment was performed in patients referred for SGS and consisted of CO scar lysis associated with balloon dilation and concomitant steroids' injection for patients with grade II or higher on the mMRC (modified Medical Research Council) dyspnea scale associated with a DI (Dyspnea Index) score higher than 10/40 and objective stenosis equal or higher than grade II.

Decannulation of Tracheostomy-Dependent Patients: Results and Review of Techniques of Reconstructive Transoral Laser Microsurgery.

Objectives: This study aims to demonstrate the benefit of reconstructive transoral laser microsurgery (R-TLM) in decannulation of tracheostomy-dependent patients with airway obstruction.

Methods: A consecutive series of tracheostomy-dependent patients who underwent R-TLM using multiple techniques described in our previous works, were reviewed for outcomes especially for decannulation. Full airway examination was essential to determine the anatomical and functional sites of obstruction to establish the surgical plan including R-TLM techniques needed to improve airway prior to permanent decannulation.

Evaluation of percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy under laryngosuspension.

Purpose: To describe the technique and outcomes of percutaneous tracheostomy under laryngosuspension.

Methods: A consecutive series of patients who underwent percutaneous tracheostomy under laryngosuspension were reviewed for outcomes. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and laryngosuspension.

Lateralization of the Vocal Fold: Results of an Exclusive Transoral Approach.

Objective: Vocal fold paralysis in adduction can result in dyspnea. The authors have previously described an original vocal fold lateralization technique performed exclusively through an endoscopic approach. In this work, we studied long and short-term results of this procedure on dyspnea, phonation, and swallowing.