[Diagnosis and treatment of patients with postintubation stenosis of the larynx and trachea].

Experience gained in the diagnosis and treatment of 498 patients with postintubation laryngotracheal stenosis is summarized. Use of accessory methods of diagnosis, such as x-ray tomography of the trachea and mediastinum and endofibroscopy of the larynx and trachea is validated. Flexible endoscopes with kits of special instruments allow decannulation without subsequent therapy in 95% patients. Simultaneous tracheoplasty and retracheostomy simplify surgical treatment of patients with postintubation laryngotracheal stenosis, making it shorter by 1-2 stages. The development of laryngotracheal stenoses depends on the duration of intubation, and hence, the optimal term for tracheostomy in patients on forced ventilation of the lungs is day 3 after intubation.