Learn about Tracheal Resection Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Tracheal Resection and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Tracheal Resection

Tracheal resection is a specialized surgical procedure performed by a pulmonologist or thoracic surgeon to remove a diseased or narrowed segment of the windpipe (trachea) and reconnect the healthy ends. It is a definitive treatment for severe tracheal stenosis (narrowing) caused by prolonged intubation, trauma, tumors, or inflammatory conditions. The goal is to restore a normal airway diameter, improve breathing, and alleviate symptoms like stridor and dyspnea. This complex, open surgery requires precise technique to preserve the trachea's blood supply and ensure a secure, airtight anastomosis (connection). It is considered when less invasive interventions like bronchoscopic dilation or stenting have failed or are unsuitable, offering a potential cure for select patients with focal tracheal disease.

Key Highlights

    Definitive treatment for severe, focal tracheal narrowing (stenosis).Can restore near-normal airway anatomy and function.Often provides a permanent solution when other interventions fail.Performed by highly specialized pulmonologists or thoracic surgeons.Aims to eliminate dependency on tracheostomy tubes in many cases.Can significantly improve quality of life by relieving severe breathing difficulties./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Post-intubation tracheal stenosis (narrowing from prolonged ventilator use).
  • Idiopathic (unknown cause) subglottic or tracheal stenosis.
  • Tracheal tumors (both benign and malignant, when localized).
  • Tracheal trauma or injury resulting in stricture.
  • Tracheomalacia (weakening of tracheal walls) in specific cases.
  • Failed previous treatments like repeated bronchial dilations or stent placements.
  • Certain congenital tracheal abnormalities.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive evaluation including CT scan and bronchoscopy to map the exact location and length of stenosis.
  • Pulmonary function tests to assess overall lung health.
  • Pre-operative optimization of any coexisting medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes).
  • Nutritional assessment and support if needed.
  • Smoking cessation is absolutely mandatory for several weeks prior.
  • Discussion of anesthesia risks and post-operative pain management plan.
  • Informed consent process detailing the procedure's risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Risks & possible complications

  • Anastomotic dehiscence (separation of the reconnected tracheal ends).
  • Infection at the surgical site or pneumonia.
  • Bleeding (hemorrhage).
  • Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury, potentially causing hoarseness or swallowing issues.
  • Restenosis (re-narrowing) at the surgical site.
  • Granulation tissue formation requiring further bronchoscopic intervention.
  • Air leak or subcutaneous emphysema (air under the skin).
  • Risks associated with general anesthesia.
  • Need for a temporary or permanent tracheostomy.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial recovery in the ICU with close monitoring of breathing and the surgical connection.
  • Neck must be kept in a flexed position ("chin-to-chest") for several days to a week to reduce tension on the anastomosis, often using a special suture.
  • Pain management with medications.
  • Gradual advancement from intravenous fluids to a soft diet as swallowing is reassessed.
  • Early mobilization to prevent blood clots and pneumonia.
  • Follow-up bronchoscopy is common before discharge to check the healing of the connection.
  • Strict avoidance of heavy lifting, straining, and extreme neck extension for 4-6 weeks.
  • Long-term follow-up with the pulmonologist for periodic airway evaluation.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full stabilization

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering tracheal resection in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for tracheal resection compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 3,861 – USD 8,824 7-14 days ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full stabilization Know More
Turkey USD 28,684 – USD 65,563 7-14 days ~ 6-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full stabilization Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Sneha Ali, a 28-year-old aspiring graphic...

Sneha Ali, a 28-year-old aspiring graphic designer, had a rare congenital condition called idiopathic subglottic stenosis, causing unexplained scarring just below her vocal cords. Her symptoms began subtly with exercise intolerance but escalated to severe stridor (noisy breathing) at rest and frequent respiratory infections. Pulmonologist Dr. Hayes explained that her airway was critically narrowed and would continue to close without intervention. She recommended a tracheal resection as the most durable solution, despite Sneha's fear of a scar and potential impact on her creative, social life. The procedure went smoothly, and Sneha spent a week in the hospital learning to manage her new airway. The recovery required immense patience, six weeks of minimal talking and a soft diet. A year later, the scar is faint, her voice is strong, and her breathing is unimpeded. Emotionally, she transformed from a frightened young woman who felt her body was betraying her dreams, into a resilient advocate for rare diseases, channeling her experience into powerful art about healing and breath.