[Tracheopexy with support frames. An experimental and clinical study].

The use of acrylic frames to support a weak trachea has been successful in 62,9% of the treated cases (in 22 of 35 operations). The use of ceramic frames has been successful in 92,3% of the cases (in 12 of 13 operations). On the basis of experimental studies, we reconstructed in this manner two rigid stenoses of the trachea by a two-stage method. The first stage consists in expanding the stenosis by means of an endotracheal support of silicone rubber tube; the second stage, in suturing ceramic frames to the trachea. Both operations by this method have been successful. Our methods and results are discussed.