Pediatric Tracheomalacia

Tracheomalacia (TM) is defined as increased collapsibility of the trachea due to structural anomalies of the tracheal cartilage and/or posterior membrane. Tracheomalacia has a wide range of etiologies, but is most commonly present in children born with esophageal atresia and tracheal esophageal fistula. Clinical symptoms can range from minor expiratory stridor with typical barking cough to severe respiratory distress episodes to acute life-threatening events (ALTE). Although the majority of children have mild to moderate symptoms and will not need surgical intervention, some will need life changing surgical treatment.
Source: Seminars in Pediatric Surgery - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Source Type: research