The insertion of tracheobronchial stent under general anesthesia with laryngeal mask

Abstract

Tracheobronchial stent insertion is a common treatment for airway obstruction due to a malignant lesion, while the sedation method varies. We have performed tracheobronchial stent insertions using flexible bronchoscopy under general anesthesia with a laryngeal mask. Here, the efficacy of this method is assessed. We examined 23 cases (28 times, 33 stents) from June 2005 to November 2010. There was no treatment-related complication or death. Dyspnea improved in all patients after the treatment, while tumor progression in the stent occurred in one case. Tracheobronchial stent insertion using the laryngeal mask is a safe and efficacious method.