Efficacy and Outcomes of Balloon Dilation in Post-intubation Tracheal Stenosis

Objective: Post-intubation tracheal stenosis (PITS) is a significant airway complication from prolonged intubation or tracheostomy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of balloon dilation in treating PITS, focusing on success rates, complication rates, and long-term results. Method: This study investigated the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients with post-intubation tracheal stenosis (PITS) who underwent balloon dilation at a tertiary care hospital. A total of 23 patients were included in the analysis, comprising 56.5% women (n=13) and 43.5% men (n=10). Data collected included gender, age, body mass index (BMI), duration and cause of intubation, number of balloon dilations performed, and clinical outcomes following the procedure. Results: The most common reasons for intubation were trauma (50%), pneumonia, and respiratory failure. The average BMI of the patients was 25 kg/m², falling within the normal range, and it did not appear to significantly affect the development of PITS. Patients were intubated for an average of 5 days, ranging from 3 to 10 days. Recurrence after first dilation was significantly higher in the pneumonia group (81.8%) compared to the trauma group (25%) (p<0.05). A second dilation reduced recurrence to 54.5% in the pneumonia group and 0% in the trauma group. The mean number of dilations per patient was 1.5. The overall success rate of balloon dilation was 85%. Only one patient (4.3%) experienced perforation, and 10% required surgical intervention such as stent placement or tracheal resection... The average follow-up period was 36 months. Conclusion: Balloon dilation is an effective and safe treatment for post-intubation tracheal stenosis, with high success rates and minimal complications. It should be considered a first-line treatment option, especially in trauma-related cases, with a good long-term prognosis.