Indications and contraindications of airway stents

Indications for Airway Stents:

Airway stents are used to manage various conditions that cause airway obstruction or narrowing. Common indications include:

1. Malignant Airway Obstruction – Caused by tumors in the trachea, bronchi, or esophagus compressing the airway.

2. Benign Airway Stenosis – From conditions like post-intubation stenosis, tracheomalacia, or inflammatory diseases.

3. Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) – To support weakened airway walls and prevent collapse.

4. Fistula Management – Such as tracheoesophageal fistulas, to separate the airway from the digestive tract.

5. Post-Surgical or Post-Radiation Strictures – To maintain airway patency after interventions.

6. Airway Compression – Due to external factors like enlarged lymph nodes or vascular anomalies.

Contraindications for Airway Stents:

Not all patients are suitable for airway stenting. Contraindications include:

1. Severe Airway Infection – Active infections can worsen with stent placement.

2. Extensive Airway Collapse – If the stent cannot provide adequate support or if it may worsen airway instability.

3. Allergy to Stent Materials – Hypersensitivity reactions to metal or silicone components.

4. Uncontrolled Bleeding Disorders – High risk of complications during stent placement.

5. Non-Compliant Patients – Patients unable to undergo necessary follow-up care and stent maintenance.

6. Airway Obstruction Due to Highly Mobile Tumors – Stents may not provide effective relief in rapidly growing or shifting tumors.

Proper patient selection and monitoring are essential to ensure airway stents are used safely and effectively.