There is also scepticism about the nature of some of the secondary lesions, for example, anomalous innominate artery, which causes direct compression of the trachea. 18 Schuster et al. The treatment of TM is now well established. Most primary cases would respond to expectant treatment, including a period of ventilation, if necessary. The trachea achieves the necessary rigidity over a period of time as part of the normal growth.
Most reports speak of minimal morbidity following aortopexy.
The outcome of treatment will, however, be determined by the etiology of TM, pulmonary reserve and infection. The associated intrinsic pulmonary lesions would render the outcome after any form of treatment limited. The most common beneficiaries of a successful aortopexy have been patients with pulsatile type of TM and those with esophageal atresia. We do, however, need to observe patients with esophageal atresia more closely for tracheomalacia as one of the missed causes of postoperative morbidity. The authors wish to acknowledge the kind assistance of Mr. Abdullah M.B. Driskell, the hospital librarian, for reference search.