Inherent Problems of Tracheo-Bronchial Stenting in Patients With Tracheostomy

In cases of permanent tracheostomy after laryngectomy, tracheo-bronchial stenting may cause serious respiratory problems due to the absence of airway humidification and the inability to cough forcefully. We report 2 patients with permanent tracheostomy who underwent stenting and developed recurrent episodes of asphyxia due to stent obstruction by dried mucus. The indication for stenting of the airways must be established with great care in patients with permanent tracheostomy.