RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: Review of our experience in the management of pediatric tracheal stenosis using endoscopic techniques and self-expanding intraluminal stents. METHODS: Thirteen children (aged 1 week to 14 years) with various causes of tracheal stenosis were treated. A total of 15 stents were used, 13 self-expanding nitinol stents and 3 silicone self-expanding stents. Follow-up ranged from 6 month to 8 years. RESULTS: There were no stent related mortalities. Serious complications occurred in 4 patients [30.7%] but all were managed successfully. The most frequent problem was granulation tissue formation. Patient follow-up ranged from 6 months to 8 years. In the short-term (18-24 months) 12 stents remained patent and functional. On the longer term (5 years) 3 stents required removal, one required replacement and another resulted in stenosis. CONCLUSION: Endoluminal stenting can have an increasing role in the management of selected cases pediatric tracheal stenosis with acceptable morbidity and stable long-term results.