Endoscopic management of tracheal and esophageal strictures

Abstract The management of a pediatric patient with a severe tracheoesophageal stricture may be the most frustrating and enduring experience encountered by the pediatric general surgeon; yet, when successful, it is one of the most rewarding. Adopting a multidisciplinary approach to these problems offers the greatest chance for success. Endoscopic management of such cases at times seems the most reasonable choice. With advances in pediatric anesthesia, endoscopic equipment, and stent technology, currently these procedures can be performed safely and offer a viable alternative to the more invasive conventional redo operations. A review of available, yet, by no means, all-inclusive endoscopic options with an emphasis on stent technology is presented using select case illustrations. Copyright 2003, Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.