Abstract
Background
Following endobronchial stent insertion granulation tissue formation may occur, which can occlude the airway. It has been postulated that bacterial colonisation causes granulation tissue formation and its subsequent proliferation.
Aim
To study whether specific microorganisms are associated with granulation tissue formation in patients post endobronchial stent deployment.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective review of all endobronchial stent insertions performed for benign conditions between January 2005- November 2011. Stents used in the procedure were covered and uncovered Ultraflex expandable metallic stents(Micro-invasive, Boston Scientific, Watertown, MA). Follow up bronchoscopies determined which patients had developed granulation tissue formation. Biopsies, sputum and lavage were then taken for microbiological anaylsis. Microsoft excel was used to collect and analyse data.
Results
Thirty patients had endobronchial stents deployed. Ten patients developed granulation tissue proliferation and all of these had bacterial colonisation of the stent with at least one pathogen. A total of 11 different pathogens where found; Staphylococcus aureus (6), Alpha haemolytic streptococci (5), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (3), Haemophilus influenza (2), Coagulase negative staphylococcus (2), Moraxella catarrhalis (1), Non haemolytic streptococcus (2), MRSA (1), Neisseria (1), Coliform (1), Corynebacterium striatum (1).
Conclusion
Prophylactic control in the form of antibiotic-impregnated stents and nebulised antibiotics post stent deployment targeting specific microorganisms may be beneficial in reducing granulation tissue formation.
- © 2012 ERS