11/07/2025
Breathless but Not Beyond Hope: Life-Saving Bronchoscopic Removal of a Rare Tracheal Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumour
Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumour (IMT) is an uncommon, low-grade neoplasm that rarely affects the central airway. We report a dramatic case of a 24-year-old male who presented with progressive respiratory distress and inspiratory stridor. Urgent imaging and bronchoscopy revealed a large tracheal mass occluding approximately 80–90% of the lumen, posing an imminent threat to life.
The patient was immediately taken up for therapeutic intervention. Under general anesthesia, rigid bronchoscopy was performed. A vascular, polypoidal tumour was identified arising from the posterior tracheal wall. Initial debulking was achieved with a mechanical snare, followed by cryoextraction of tumour remnants. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) was then employed to ablate the tumour base and achieve haemostasis. This multimodal bronchoscopic approach restored airway patency successfully.
Histopathology confirmed the lesion as an inflammatory myofibroblastic tumour. The patient had a smooth postoperative recovery and was discharged with complete resolution of respiratory symptoms.
This case highlights the critical importance of early diagnosis and the potential of advanced interventional pulmonology techniques in managing central airway obstructions. Rigid bronchoscopy, combined with tools like snare, cryotherapy, and APC, offers a safe and effective alternative to open surgery, especially in urgent scenarios.
Such rare presentations remind us of the vital need for vigilance and prompt action in airway emergencies.
Regards,
Dr. Sampat Dash
Department of Respiratory Medicine
Ashwini Hospital, Cuttack