Journal of clinical anesthesia
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The use of bronchoscopically placed self-expanding metallic stents (SEMS) and silastic stents in patients suffering from tracheobronchial stenosis or similar problems has proven to be an important clinical option. When complications occur, it may be necessary to remove the device. ⋯ Intubating patients' tracheas with a tracheal stent requires special caution, as it risks damaging tissue and dislodging the stent distally. Potential complications with removal include tracheal disruption, retained stent pieces, mucosal tears, re-obstruction requiring new stent placement, the need for postoperative ventilation, pneumothorax, damage to the pulmonary artery, and death.