Tracheoplasty with pericardial patch for extensive tracheal stenosis in infants and children.

Five infants with long tracheal stenosis were operated upon by means of a pericardial patch tracheoplasty. The approach was through a median sternotomy with extracorporeal circulation for respiratory support. In four, the obstruction was due to complete rings; in the other, there was an associated tracheal trauma which had occurred during resuscitation. This patient requires prolonged stenting with a tracheostomy tube. All others are asymptomatic postoperatively, with the longest follow-up being 22 months. There were no deaths or infections. We conclude from this experience that median sternotomy provides an excellent approach to the trachea, that autogenous pericardium is advantageous, and that there is no need for prolonged tracheal stenting in most patients.