Two patients with cervical tracheal stenosis, following prolonged ventilatory support, underwent balloon dilatation and expandable stainless steel stent placement across the stenoses. Following the successful release of the stent, there was gradual widening of the stenosed trachea in one patient, while in the other re-stenosis occurred due to columns of tracheal tissue projecting between the limbs of the stent. In the chronically ill and debilitated, use of expandable stents provides a good alternative to complex reconstructive surgery.

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The concept of minimal access surgery for gynecologic malignancies has gone from a perceived near impossibility to a fully recognized option for many patients over the past 10 years. This article reviews the different minimal access techniques used for surgical staging of carcinoma endometrium, their outcome, feasibility and safety in comparison to conventional staging laparotomy. After review of literature, it is concluded that laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures are acceptable and safer alternatives to traditional laparotomy in the staging of carcinoma endometrium, especially in obese women. Long-term outcome reports for robotic surgery is awaited.ABSTRACT copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use.