Hybrid Airway Stent System Eases Breathing

A hybrid tracheobronchial stent, with the characteristics of both metallic and silicone stents, alleviates breathing in patients with malignant pulmonary obstructions.

The Aero hybrid tracheobronchial stent system was designed for the specific anatomic requirements of non-vascular pulmonary lumens. The removable stent is biologically inert, and was developed to minimize granulation tissue formation and tumor in-growth. Enhanced, uniform, radial force allows dynamic expansion, and the stent is resistant to recompression. The flexible stent, designed for tortuous airways, is also radiopaque.

The stent is readily deployed, with precise one-handed delivery over the target site during both flexible and rigid bronchoscopy. There is virtually no foreshortening, and the stent can be easily repositioned post-deployment. The Aero hybrid tracheobronchial stent is a product of Alveolus (Charlotte, NC, USA), and has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of tracheobronchial strictures produced by malignant neoplasms.

"With the lack of innovation in non-vascular stenting, this is truly a significant event for physicians. This revolutionary hybrid stent should improve the welfare of pulmonary patients,” said Dr. Atul Mehta, an interventional pulmonologist of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation (OH, USA).

Malignant pulmonary obstruction is the blockage of the airway or tracheobronchial tree. The major symptom of malignant pulmonary obstruction is difficulty in breathing, a condition that often requires hospitalization. The placement of a stent may improve the condition while reducing a patient's hospital stay.




Related Links:
Alveolus
Cleveland Clinic Foundation