ABSTRACT
Objective To investigate the feasibility and therapeutic efficacy of inverted Y-shaped silicone airway stent for complex airway diseases (stenosis or fistula). Methods According to the particular anatomic structure and the pathological changes of complex airway diseases, the inverted Y-shaped silicone airway stents were designed. 7 stents were implanted in 7 cases of airway complex diseases with the guidance of interventional rigid bronchoscope under general anesthesia. Results The Y-shaped silicone stents were placed successfully followed with the result of immediate relieves of the symptoms. Dyspnea grade was improved significantly from Ⅲ~Ⅳ to 0 ~Ⅱ , and oxygen saturation elevated from ( 84.1 ± 4.5 ) % in inspiring high concentration oxygen to ( 94.1 ± 2.9 ) % in breathing ambient air (P = 0.000). The main complications were cough, foreign body sensation, chest pain, granulation, sputum retention, et al. Conclusion Placement of Y-shaped silicone airway stent is a feasible and safe treatment for complex airway disease, the recent curative effect is reliable, it is worth further promoting.