Cases of tracheal stenosis diagnosed in the bronchoscopy service of INERAM. Period 2021 – 2023

Abstract

Introduction: Tracheal stenosis is a respiratory condition characterised by abnormal narrowing of the trachea, resulting in a significant decrease in airflow to the lungs. This pathology represents a major clinical challenge due to its multiple aetiologies, variable clinical presentation and potentially serious complications. Methodology: A retrospective observational design was used to study patients with tracheal stenosis. Clinical files and bronchoscopy records were reviewed. The sample included 164 patients. The variables used were demographic characteristics, type of stenosis and relationship with orotracheal intubation. PSPP software was used for the analysis, and a descriptive statistical analysis was performed. Results: Of the 1005 patients who underwent bronchoscopy between 2021 and 2023, 164 cases of tracheal stenosis were identified, representing 16.3% of the total. The average age of these patients was 41 years. Of these, 69.5% were male and 51% were from Asunción and Central. Of the stenosis cases, 80.5% were related to orotracheal intubation; less than 1% of this group was intubated at INERAM. Of the patients with tracheal stenosis, 32.3% had prolonged orotracheal intubation as a triggering factor and in 57.9% of cases the duration of intubation was not specified or was not applicable. Conclusion: Stenosis cases constitute a small group of the total number of cases undergoing bronchoscopy at INERAM. There is a close relationship between prolonged orotracheal intubation and cases of tracheal stenosis.