Narrative review of malignant central airway obstruction: management updates.

ABSTRACT:

Background and objective

Malignant central airway obstruction (MCAO) is a life-threatening condition that results from the narrowing of major airways due to malignancies. MCAO may result from intrinsic, extrinsic, or mixed morphologies of obstruction, which along with patient-specific factors determine treatment pathways. This review provides an updated overview of the management of MCAO, highlighting both traditional and emerging therapeutic modalities. Through a nuanced understanding of these therapies, proceduralists can optimize MCAO management and improve patient outcome. For intrinsic or mixed MCAO, bronchoscopic ablative therapies with immediate effects-including laser, electrocautery (EC), argon plasma coagulation (APC), and cryo-debulking-are essential for restoring airway

SUBMITTER: Choi S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12557659 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature