Skip repetitive links and go to content
General Surgery, University of Wisconsin - Madison
For Patients
Residents and Fellows
Meet the Faculty
Alumni
Research
Active Grants
Research Training
Research Employment Opportunities
Active Clinical Studies
Resident Research
Research Awards
Links for Researchers
Research Employment Opportunities
Research Help Wanted
News and Events
giving

Sarvi Nalwa ‘01

Nalwa S, Hartig G, Warner T, Connor NP, Thielman M. Evaluation of poly-L-glycolic acid resorbable stents for repair of tracheomalacia in a porcine model. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2001; 110:993-999

Trachea with resorbable stent in placePoly-L-lactic acid and poly-glycolic acid (PLPG) resorbable stents may offer a potential solution to the problem of tracheomalacia. Advantages of this material include its strength, its versatile shaping characteristics, and its resorbability, which would preclude surgical removal and allow for airway growth. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the usefulness of PLPG stents for temporary external airway stenting of tracheomalacia in a porcine model. A severe tracheomalacia was created in 6 pigs by submucosal resection of segments of tracheal cartilage from 6 consecutive rings. The PLPG stent was then shaped to recreate the tracheal contour and sutured to the underlying airway. Endoscopic photodocumentation during spontaneous ventilation was obtained before and after reconstruction. After creation of the malacic tracheal segment, all animals developed stridor, retractions, and cyanosis during spontaneous ventilation. After repair, all animals were extubated without complication. All animals survived the follow-up period of 9 to 12 weeks without evidence of respiratory distress and with rapid weight gain. Repeat bronchoscopy showed no evidence of airway collapse during spontaneous ventilation. Tracheal measurements revealed growth of the stented segment with a mild narrowing within the repaired region. Histologic examination showed preservation of respiratory epithelium. These preliminary findings suggest that PLPG stents may serve a useful role in the surgical management of tracheomalacia.


Figure: Trachea with resorbable stent in place.

 

Administration - Maps - Affiliated Hospitals - Med Student Information - UW Home

Otolaryngology Surgery University of Wisconsin Department of Surgery
First published: 07/15/02 Last updated: 11/24/09 webmaster@surgery.wisc.edu
Copyright © 2005 The Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System