Thermoablative Techniques to Treat Excessive Central Airway Collapse

Thermoablative bronchoscopic approaches have emerged as a potentially viable alternative to traditional tracheobronchoplasty for the treatment of excessive central airway collapse. Although limited to animal models and a few independent case reports and retrospective observational studies, the initial results of this experimental technique are promising. However, further research is necessary to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this approach in humans. As such, thermoablative techniques for EDAC should be considered experimental at this stage, and their use should be guided by careful consideration of the available evidence and individual patient circumstances.