Surgical management of tracheal tumors.
BACKGROUND
Resection of tracheal tumors is particularly challenging when the neoplasm involves the carina or is located in close proximity. We reviewed our experience with 22 tracheal resections for tumor.


METHODS
In this retrospective review, adenoid cystic carcinoma was diagnosed in 13 patients, squamous cell carcinoma in 5, typical carcinoid in 2, and leiomyoma and benign fibrous histiocytoma, in 1 each. There were 19 segmental resections with direct anastomosis, and 3 complex resections in which the carina was involved.


RESULTS
One patient with tumor in the trachea and left main bronchus underwent resection through simultaneous bilateral thoracotomy and died. During 2 to 17 years of follow-up, 2 patients died of unrelated disease, 2 died of metastases, and 1 is receiving radiotherapy for recurrence. Sixteen patients are well and free of tumor.


CONCLUSIONS
Complete resection of all neoplastic tissue is mandatory, but benign and low-grade malignant tumors should be resected conservatively with preservation of lung parenchyma. Options for treatment of neoplasms involving trachea and left bronchus should include resection of the neoplasm in two stages, thus minimizing trauma of each operation.
Refaely
Y
Y
Department of Thoracic Surgery, Tel Aviv University Sackler School of Medicine, Israel.
Weissberg
D
D
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D015996:Survival Rate; D014134:Tracheal Neoplasms / Q000401:mortality / Q000601:surgery*