AERO self-expanding hybrid stent for airway stenosis.

Self-expanding metal, as well as silicon, stents have long been available for use in the airway. Metal stents can be placed using a flexible bronchoscope and are less readily removed. Silicone stents require rigid bronchoscopy and general anesthesia for placement but are removable. Both technologies are prone to complications on a long-term basis. A new self-expanding hybrid stent, the AERO stent (Alveolus, Inc., NC, USA), combines the best features of metal and silicone stents with a completely covered nitinol framework. The potential advantages of a self-expanding hybrid stent include placement using flexible bronchoscopy under conscious sedation, easy removability and a potential reduction in common long-term stent implant complications. This article profiles the AERO device and evaluates stent technology in general.