Successful diagnosis and treatment of congenital tracheal web using a fiberoptic bronchoscope

Abstract

Congenital tracheal web is a very rare abnormality that often manifests as wheezing, dyspnea, and respiratory failure. Misdiagnosis is common. Here we describe the case of a 47-day-old female infant who presented after severe, extended coughing. The diagnosis of congenital tracheal web was made following coronal computer tomography (CT) reconstruction and bronchoscopy. The bronchoscope was used to facilitate tracheal expansion. This is the youngest case reported to date to highlight the diagnosis and treatment of a 47 days infant with congenital tracheal web. An infant with tracheal web, a very rare congenital anomaly can be clearly diagnosed by coronal CT reconstruction combined with bronchoscopy. If diagnosed early, the bronchoscope may be used to facilitate tracheal expansion.