The Microvasive Tracheobronchial Stent is a small metal device designed to open a narrowed area in the large airways leading to the lungs. It is a hollow tube, made of elastic wire mesh, which can be implanted in the airway to allow normal air passage into and out of the lungs.

A patient that has been experiencing difficulty breathing because an area in the airway has become constricted may be a candidate for a tracheobronchial stent.

"The main group of patients this treatment will benefit is cancer patients who have an obstruction in their trachea or left or right stem bronchus," explains Greg LeMense, M.D., a specialist in pulmonary medicine with Horizon Physicians Group. Dr. LeMense has been specially trained in stent placement and use of this technology.

Narrowing of the airways can also be caused by benign strictures or previous treatments or procedures. Tracheobronchial stenting is a new alternative and important option for these types of problems.

Stent placement is not a cure for the cause of the airway narrowing or obstruction. However, it will relieve the narrowing, allowing a patient to breathe with less discomfort.

When the stent is fully expanded, it widens the narrowed area and holds it open, increasing the amount of oxygen to the lungs and all body organs. Because of the increased levels of oxygen, a patient will notice that activity and breathing are easier and more comfortable.

The stent is a permanent, implantable device, but not likely to cause discomfort or be noticeable to patients once in place. It is implanted endoscopically using a flexible bronchoscope. Patients are sedated, but conscious during the procedure, and most go home the same day.

For more information about tracheobronchial stents, please call Dr. LeMense's office at 546-5111.