2.2. Management protocol
Every candidate was evaluted with dynamic flexible bronchoscopy (FB) and contrast computed tomography (CT). Data obtained from these explorations were crucial in order to establish the indication and obtain the estimated dimensions of the stent. The decision to perform stenting was made by our multidisciplinary airway team including pediatric surgeons, cardiac and ENT surgeons, anesthesiologists, intensive care and pediatric pulmonologists, and radiology/image specialists. According to our management protocol, stenting is not a first line treatment and other therapeutic options were considered, or tried, before deciding to place a BD stent in the airway. After thorough evaluation of the clinical situation of the patient, eventual benefits and stent-related risks, BD stenting was offered to the patient´s parents or care givers.