Tracheal stenosis treated by division of the brachiocephalic artery: Report of a case

Abstract

Tracheal stenosis of the brachiocephalic artery (BCA) is rare, and no definitive treatment protocol has yet been established. Brachiocephalic artery compression of the trachea is also relatively rare. This report presents a case of tracheal stenosis treated by division of the BCA. A 29-year-old woman was admitted because of stridor. Computed tomography (CT) revealed tracheal stenosis caused by compression of the BCA. Brachiocephalic artery suspension or aortopexy was not indicated because she had a thoracic deformity. Therefore, the BCA was divided. The operation was achieved without complications such as ischemia of the right arm or stroke. The stenosis of the trachea was improved. Division of the BCA can be an effective alternative procedure when the tracheal stenosis is caused by the BCA.