Treatment of severe tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica: Application of endobronchial argon plasma coagulation, presentation of three cases and literature review

Abstract

Tracheobronchopathia osteochondroplastica (TBPO) is a rare condition characterized by the abnormal growth of cartilage within the trachea and main bronchi, leading to airway obstruction. The exact cause of TBPO is unknown, but it is thought to be associated with chronic inflammation of the airways and abnormal cartilage metabolism. Since there is not a standardization, the treatment of the condition depends on disease symptoms, infection status and the severity of the airway obstruction. Here, we aimed to present three cases of severe TBPO successfully managed in our interventional pulmonology unit applying argon plasma coagulation and mechanical debulking with rigid bronchoscopy, as well as the literature review.