An experimental model for the prevention of postanastomotic tracheal stenosis.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the current study is to determine the efficiency of an external prosthesis made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene reinforced with a continuous silicone spiral to prevent postanastomotic stenosis after surgical correction of extensive tracheal defects in rabbits.

METHODS

Forty-five rabbits were used, divided into three groups of 15 animals each. Group A was the control group. Group B animals underwent resection of six-ring segments of the cervical trachea and primary anastomosis. The procedure used in group C was similar to that used in group B, but the tracheal anastomosis was supported by an external expanded polytetrafluoroethylene prosthesis.

RESULTS

Direct anastomosis after resection of six tracheal rings caused anastomotic stenosis in 100% of the animals. We did not observe tracheal stenosis in any rabbit when we applied an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene tube as an external stent for the tracheotracheal suture.

CONCLUSION

We conclude that an external stent can be used to prevent tracheal stenosis resulting from the resection of six cervical tracheal rings in rabbits.