Argon plasma coagulation in the management of uncovered tracheal stent fracture

Abstract

Endotracheal and endobronchial stenting, particularly with uncovered stents, can be complicated by stent fracture, granulation tissue formation, direct airway injury, and airway obstruction. While stent removal is possible, it can result in significant complications and long-term benefit is not guaranteed. Argon plasma coagulation can be employed to trim fractured stent fragments and remove granulation tissue simultaneously. In this manuscript, we report a case and describe our experience with using this technique.

Keywords

• Argon plasma coagulation
• Tracheal stent
• Fracture