Objective To investigate the feasibility and therapeutic efficacy of inverted Y-shaped self-expandable metal airway stent for complex airway diseases ( stenosis or fistula) .Methods According to the particular anatomic structure and the pathological changes of complex airway diseases, the inverted Y-shaped self-expandable metal airway stent was designed. 10 stents were implanted in 10 cases of airway complex diseases under the guidance of interventional fibroscopy and fluoroscopy. Results The inverted Y-shaped stents were placed successfully with immediate relief of the symptoms. 100% of the patients were able to be weaned fromoxygen therapy completely. Dyspnea grade improved significantly fromⅢ-Ⅳ to 0-Ⅱ,and oxygen saturation elevated from ( 85 ±5) % in inspiring high concentration oxygen to ( 95 ±3) % in breathing ambient air ( t = - 7. 352, P lt;0. 05) . Breathlessness in 2 cases with tracheoesophageal fistula was relieved after inserting covered airway stent without bucking while foodintaking after fasting 24 hours.Conclusion The placement of inverted Y-shaped self-expandable metal airway stent is a feasible and safetreatment for complex airway disease such as stenosis or fistula.
