Endotracheal stent increased survival length in patients with invasive thymic adenocarcinoma

Abstract

We reported the frst case of inoperative thymic adenocarcinoma successfully palliative treated by the double?stent procedure. In a patient who expressed stridor, computed tomography was done and necrotic mediastinal mass, which protrudes into a trachea, was demonstrated. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy showed tracheal infltration and 70% stenosis; therefore, surgical resection was inapplicable. Recanalization with repeated argon plasma coagulation and debridement of necrotic mass was performed, followed by placement of
the endotracheal stent, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy. After 1 year, the patient developed gastric aspiration and tracheoesophageal fstula; therefore, the esophageal stent was placed. Te outcome was lethal, but the placement of endotracheal stent signifcantly increased a length of survival for the patient with invasive thymic adenocarcinoma.