Editorial on tracheal resection and reconstruction

Tracheal resection and reconstruction is an infrequently practiced surgical procedure. Those who have a special interest in this area of surgery will encounter this problem much more frequently than the occasional airway surgeon. All who are involved in this type of airway surgery need to have a firm understanding of the principles of evaluation and management, a sound understanding of airway management both at presentation and during surgery, understand the limits of resection, have in mind a firm understanding of a surgical technique that is reliable, reproducible, and familiar, understand the principles of postoperative care and the management of complications. As more people become interested in airway surgery, it is important to share knowledge of all of these to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients (1). The old adage that the best opportunity for success is the first operation clearly holds for airway surgery.