After seven failed procedures, Gandhi Hospital surgeons reconstruct 20-year-old's breathing tube

A 20-year-old man who underwent seven unsuccessful procedures to widen a narrowed trachea has returned to normal breathing after doctors at Gandhi Hospital in Secunderabad performed a complex operation to remove a 4 cm blocked section and reconnect the airway. | Photo credit: Special arrangement

Patient Sandeep had a severe narrowing of the trachea, with 90 to 95% of the passage blocked, restricting the flow of air to his lungs. A team of doctors performed the surgery on September 30 for free.

Sandeep’s ordeal began in 2018 when he required ventilator support at a private hospital after consuming pesticides. During his treatment, a tracheostomy was performed to create an opening in the trachea to facilitate breathing. In 2019, persistent breathing problems led him to consult doctors at Koti ENT Hospital. An attempt to close the opening proved unsuccessful as the tracheal passage narrowed.

Between 2019 and 2022, he underwent seven dilation procedures to widen the narrowed passage. However, these procedures did not provide lasting relief, prompting doctors to insert a Montgomery tube in July 2022 to help maintain an airway. Four years later, the tube was removed after medical examinations. However, his breathing problems returned and worsened over the next three months. He also developed snoring while breathing.

Doctors at Koti ENT Hospital suggested creating another opening in his trachea. Unwilling to undergo another such procedure, Sandeep sought treatment at a private hospital where he was advised to undergo surgery at an estimated cost of ₹7 to 8 lakh.

He subsequently learned about the treatment available at Gandhi Hospital through an ENT specialist and approached the government facility for further evaluation. Investigations revealed that the trachea was 90% to 95% obstructed, necessitating emergency surgery. Doctors decided to remove the affected part and reattach the remaining parts of the trachea.

During the operation, surgeons removed a 4 cm long obstructed segment and stitched the remaining ends together to restore the airway. After the procedure, Sandeep’s condition improved significantly, his breathing problems and wheezing completely subsided.

Published – 17 Oct 2026 20:38 IST