1. Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and excessive dynamic airway collapse (EDAC) are conditions characterized by weakness and collapse of the trachea and main bronchi.
2. TBM involves weakness of the tracheal cartilage, surrounding muscles, and elastic fibers, leading to tracheal stenosis, increased secretions, coughing, wheezing, and recurrent infections. EDAC involves weakness of the elastic membrane on the dorsal side of the trachea not covered by cartilage, allowing collapse.
3. Diagnosis involves detecting airway collapse on expiratory CT scans or fluoroscopy. A decrease in tracheal cross-sectional area of over 18% in the upper airway or over
1. Tracheobronchomalacia (TBM) and excessive dynamic airway collapse (EDAC) are conditions characterized by weakness and collapse of the trachea and main bronchi.
2. TBM involves weakness of the tracheal cartilage, surrounding muscles, and elastic fibers, leading to tracheal stenosis, increased secretions, coughing, wheezing, and recurrent infections. EDAC involves weakness of the elastic membrane on the dorsal side of the trachea not covered by cartilage, allowing collapse.
3. Diagnosis involves detecting airway collapse on expiratory CT scans or fluoroscopy. A decrease in tracheal cross-sectional area of over 18% in the upper airway or over