2.2. Management protocol
Every candidate was evaluted with dynamic flexible bronchoscopy (FB) and
contrast computed tomography (CT). Data obtained from these explorations
were crucial in order to establish the indication and obtain the
estimated dimensions of the stent. The decision to perform stenting was
made by our multidisciplinary airway team including pediatric surgeons,
cardiac and ENT surgeons, anesthesiologists, intensive care and
pediatric pulmonologists, and radiology/image specialists. According to
our management protocol, stenting is not a first line treatment and
other therapeutic options were considered, or tried, before deciding to
place a BD stent in the airway. After thorough evaluation of the
clinical situation of the patient, eventual benefits and stent-related
risks, BD stenting was offered to the patient´s parents or care givers.