Cryoballoon use for cryoablation in benign tracheal stenosis

<bold>Background:</bold> Cryotherapy performed via a steerable balloon has not been described as a treatment for benign tracheal stenosis. This series of four patients receiving six total treatments demonstrates the first use of this tool, originally designed for use in the esophagus, in the airway. <bold>Aims and Objective:</bold> The purpose of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the cryoballoon for the treatment of benign stenosis in the airway. Secondary aims of the study were to determine the advantages of the cryoballoon over conventional methods of cryotherapy and/or dilation, and to determine any adverse effects of cryoballoon use in the airway. <bold>Methods:</bold> Patients included in the study presented to a single tertiary academic medical center with symptomatic tracheal stenosis with at least one prior therapy for non-malignant tracheal stenosis. Malignant causes of tracheal stenosis and emergent cases were excluded. <bold>Results:</bold> Four patients were treated successfully with cryoballoon therapy and dilation, with one patient receiving three distinct treatments. No serious adverse events were detected. <bold>Conclusion:</bold> The cryoballoon can safely be used to treat benign tracheal stenosis. Larger studies are needed to demonstrate improved efficacy compared to other interventions for non-malignant tracheal/tracheal stenosis.