A novel endobronchial approach to massive hemoptysis complicating silicone Y-stent placement for tracheobronchomalacia: A case report.

RATIONALE

Airway stabilization for severe, symptomatic tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) may be accomplished by silicone Y-stent placement. Common complications of the Y-stent include mucus plugging and granulation tissue formation.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We describe a rare case of massive hemoptysis originating from a silicone Y-stent placed for TBM.

DIAGNOSES

An emergent bronchoscopy showed an actively bleeding, pulsatile vessel at the distal end of the left bronchial limb of the Y-stent. It was felt that the bleeding was caused by, or at least impacted by, the distal left bronchial limb of the Y-stent eroding into the airway wall.

INTERVENTIONS

We hypothesized that placement of oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) would provide initial hemostasis, and the subsequent placement of a biocompatible surgical sealant would lead to definitive resolution.

OUTCOMES

ORC provided sufficient hemostasis and the subsequent synthetic polymer reinforced the tissue for complete cessation of the bleed.

LESSONS

The combined use of ORC and a biocompatible surgical sealant provided long-term management for life-threatening hemoptysis, and potentially morbid procedures such as embolization or surgery were avoided by advanced endobronchial therapy.