Rabbit model of congenital tracheal stenosis

Abstract

Congenital tracheal stenosis is a rare malformation corrected by means of slide tracheoplasty. This procedure minimizes loss of tracheal wall and preserves length of trachea. Results of tracheal reconstruction depend on surgical technique details. The aim of present study was to establish a model of congenital tracheal stenosis. 15 rabbits underwent stenosing tracheoplasty. Tracheal wall was incised longitudinally. By means of compasses and scissors two triangular flaps were formed at both sides of incision. Resulting figured defect was longitudinally closed by interrupted sutures. On autopsy tracheal complex was withdrawn and lumen diameter at tracheoplasty level as well as in adjacent unaltered levels was measured by Hegar’s dilators. By measured and normal lumen area ratio grade of formed stenosis was estimated. Healing of tracheal wall was also accessed. Measured stenosis grade was 54-73%. Reliable healing of tracheal wall was achieved by 9th postoperative day. Proposed model of congenital tracheal stenosis in rabbit narrows trachea as result of partial tracheal wall removal. Surgical procedure is not technically difficult. No special measures are required postoperatively. Respiratory complications rate is low. Nevertheless, the most important limitation of the model is preservation of membranous wall at the level of stenosis and failure to reproduce complete cartilaginous ring to simulate congenital anomaly morphology. Next step of the research should be transfer of tracheoplasty zone to the posterior side of trachea and removal of membranous wall segment.