Resection of distal tracheal and carinal tumours with the aid of cardiopulmonary bypass.

Two cases of carinal and tracheal reconstruction with the aid of cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) are presented. The technical problems of surgery and anaesthesia which necessitated CPB in these two patients are discussed. CPB provides both adequate oxygenation and an unobstructed surgical field with optimal access to the trachea and carina. It permits atraumatic handling of the airways and reduction of anastomotic tension during the repair.