"Scabbard trachea" refers to a rare congenital anomaly affecting the structure of the trachea, which is the windpipe connecting the larynx (voice box) to the bronchi (tubes leading to the lungs). In this condition, the trachea displays a unique appearance resembling a scabbard, which is the protective sheath that encases a sword or blade.
Normally, the trachea takes on a cylindrical shape, but in scabbard trachea, it is constricted in the anterior-posterior direction, resulting in a flattened appearance and narrower diameter. This abnormality primarily occurs due to the atrophy or non-development of the tracheal cartilage rings. As a result, the tracheal walls become thin, inflexible, and rigid.
As a consequence, individuals with scabbard trachea may experience breathing difficulties, such as stridor (high-pitched wheezing sound) and dyspnea (difficulty breathing), especially during exertion or physical activities. These symptoms may worsen over time, and if left untreated, can lead to serious respiratory complications.
Treatment options for scabbard trachea generally involve surgical intervention, aiming to reconstruct and stabilize the trachea using various techniques. Surgical procedures may involve tracheal resection, where a segment of the trachea is excised and replaced, or the insertion of a stent to support and maintain the patency of the tracheal lumen. The goal of these interventions is to alleviate the breathing difficulties and enhance the overall respiratory function of individuals with scabbard trachea.
