Postoperative nursing after tracheoplasty for congenital tracheal stenosis.

BACKGROUND

To explore targeted nursing strategies for managing postoperative complications in children with congenital tracheal stenosis (CTS) following tracheoplasty.

METHODS

A total of 263 children with CTS who underwent tracheoplasty were retrospectively analyzed. Key aspects of postoperative nursing included body positioning, endotracheal intubation management, invasive mechanical ventilation management, airway care, and the identification and management of common postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Twelve children died during hospitalization, yielding an overall mortality rate of 4.5%. Granulation tissue hyperplasia was observed in 18 cases and was treated with endoscopic laser cauterization and/or forceps removal. Anastomotic scar contracture occurred in 34 cases and was treated with endoscopic balloon dilatation. Severe tracheomalacia affecting ventilation was identified in 43 patients, among whom 9 required tracheal silicone stent implantation. A total of 251 surviving children were followed up for 1-56 months (median: 13 months). Two children with preoperative bronchiolitis obliterans remained dependent on intermittent oxygen therapy at the final follow-up. Respiratory symptoms were significantly improved in the remaining survivors.

CONCLUSION

Meticulous postoperative airway nursing care in children with CTS can improve surgical outcomes, reduce complications, and facilitate postoperative recovery.