Bronchoscopic Resection of High-Risk Tracheal Leiomyoma With Extracorporeal Membranous Oxygenation (ECMO) Standby: A Case Report Highlighting Multidisciplinary Approach

TL;DR

A rare tracheal tumor was safely removed using bronchoscopy with ECMO support, showing the value of a team-based approach.

Contribution

Demonstrates successful bronchoscopic resection of a high-risk tracheal leiomyoma with ECMO standby.

Findings

Tracheal leiomyoma was successfully resected bronchoscopically with ECMO on standby.

Multidisciplinary approach minimized risk of airway obstruction during the procedure.

ECMO use in high-risk airway procedures is feasible with careful planning.

Abstract

Tracheal leiomyomas are extremely rare benign tumors that are most commonly treated by bronchoscopic or surgical resection. Procedure-related complication rates are low, with surgical tracheal resection carrying the highest risk. Nonetheless, related airway obstruction is a potentially devastating complication. As proficiency develops, more centers are utilizing extracorporeal membranous oxygenation (ECMO) not just for critically ill patients but also for high-risk airway therapeutic procedures. However, ECMO carries its own potential complications, and the decision to cannulate requires multidisciplinary discussions. We present a case of a high-risk tracheal leiomyoma that was successfully resected bronchoscopically with ECMO on standby.

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