[Tracheal replacement grafts: current options].

A critical review of publications on tracheal reconstruction is presented. The extent of the resection defect in terms of horizontal circumference or longitudinal extension determines the difficulty of the reconstruction. To allow a valid comparison, a classification of tracheal defects is proposed. The reconstruction materials can be subdivided into synthetic grafts, autografts, allografts, and bioengineering constructs. Reconstruction of tracheal defects greater than half of the tracheal length was not possible until recently. Numerous publications on animal experimental techniques, and rare human case reports show few successful outcomes. During the last five years, new reconstructive options have emerged: autograft of composite flaps mimicking tracheal architecture and bioengineered tracheal constructs.