By Brig (R) Dr. Asif Asghar – Consultant Thoracic Surgeon

When every breath becomes an effort, it may be more than just a common respiratory infection. Tracheal obstruction or narrowing can silently progress until breathing becomes a life-threatening issue. Tracheal surgery is a specialized but often life-saving procedure that restores the ability to breathe normally.

 What Is the Trachea and Why Is It So Important?

• The trachea, commonly known as the windpipe, is the tube that connects your voice box (larynx) to your lungs.
• It acts as the main passage for air to enter and exit the lungs.
• A healthy trachea ensures smooth, effortless breathing.
• Any narrowing, blockage, or damage to the trachea can significantly impair oxygen flow to the body.

 Why Might You Need Tracheal Surgery?

Tracheal surgery is considered when the trachea is narrowed (stenosis), blocked, damaged, or invaded by disease.

• Tracheal Stenosis – Scar tissue or injury narrows the airway.
• Tumors or Cancer – Benign or malignant growths inside or near the trachea.
• Tracheomalacia – Weakening or collapse of the tracheal wall.
• Injuries or Trauma – Resulting from accidents or prolonged intubation.
• Congenital Defects – Narrow trachea present from birth.
• External Compression – Enlarged thyroid, lymph nodes, or vascular anomalies pressing on the trachea.

 Common Symptoms of Tracheal Obstruction

• Shortness of breath, especially during exertion
• Noisy breathing or wheezing (stridor)
• Chronic cough that doesn’t go away
• Difficulty breathing lying down
• Recurrent respiratory infections
• Hoarseness or change in voice
• Feeling of tightness in the throat or chest

 How Is Tracheal Obstruction Diagnosed?

• CT Scan of Neck and Chest – To visualize structural issues
• Bronchoscopy – Direct view of the airway using a flexible scope
• Pulmonary Function Tests – To assess breathing capacity
• Biopsy – If a tumor or growth is suspected

 What Is Tracheal Surgery and How Is It Done?

• Tracheal surgery involves removing the narrowed or damaged portion of the trachea and reconnecting the healthy ends – called tracheal resection and anastomosis.
• In some cases, tracheoplasty (reconstruction) or stenting may be performed.
• Surgery is typically done under general anesthesia with the help of a highly skilled thoracic surgical team.

Types of Tracheal Surgeries Performed

• Segmental Resection – Removing the narrowed portion and reconnecting.
• Tracheal Tumor Resection – Removing cancerous or non-cancerous growths.
• Additional procedures like lateral cricoplasty and cricoid plate enlargement are also performed.

 Risks If Tracheal Surgery Is Not Performed Timely

Not treating tracheal obstruction or disease can lead to serious and often life-threatening complications:

• Progressive breathing difficulty – May lead to complete airway blockage.
• Respiratory failure – Body may not get enough oxygen.
• Frequent infections – Such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
• Voice changes – Due to pressure on the vocal cords.
• Sudden airway collapse – Especially in tracheomalacia or trauma cases.
• Emergency tracheostomy – May become the only option if surgery is delayed.
• Poor quality of life – Constant breathlessness and anxiety.
• Death – In severe untreated obstructions.

Benefits of Tracheal Surgery

• Restores normal breathing pattern
• Improves quality of life and energy levels
• Eliminates long-term dependency on oxygen or tracheostomy
• Reduces risk of future infections and complications
• Enhances speech and vocal function
• Allows return to normal daily activities

Conclusion

“Breathing freely is one of life’s simplest joys and no one should be deprived of it. With timely diagnosis and modern tracheal surgery, we can restore normal breathing, prevent complications, and greatly improve quality of life. My mission is to combine surgical precision with compassionate care, ensuring every patient feels safe and supported.

If you or your loved one is struggling with persistent breathing issues, don’t wait until it becomes critical, early consultation is the key to recovery. Your health, your breath, and your life matter, and we at AIH are here to protect them.”