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Tracheobronchoplasty
Lung Cancer Surgery, Esophageal Surgery
Advanced Minimally Invasive Thoracic Surgery
Tracheobronchomalacia
Restoring Breath. Restoring Life.
World Leaders in Tracheobronchomalacia Diagnosis, Treatment & Robotic Tracheobronchoplasty
Transforming the future of central airway disease through innovation, precision surgery, and compassionate patient care.
Primary Call‑to‑Action:
Request a Consultation
Secondary Call‑to‑Action:
Learn About Tracheobronchomalacia
What We Do
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Diagnose complex central airway disorders with unmatched expertise
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Offer the world’s most advanced robotic tracheobronchoplasty program
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Provide comprehensive evaluation, stent trials, and surgical repair
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Lead national education, research, and innovation in TBM
ABOUT US
Our Mission
To restore quality of life for patients with central airway disease through innovation, evidence‑based care, and world‑leading surgical expertise.
Our Vision
A world where no patient with airway collapse goes undiagnosed, untreated, or unheard.
Our Leadership
Richard Lazzaro, MD, FACS
Senior Thoracic Surgeon & Program Director, Lung Health
International leader in robotic tracheobronchoplasty and advanced airway reconstruction.
Program Highlights
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First in the world to develop and refine robotic tracheobronchoplasty techniques
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Nationally recognized center for TBM diagnosis and treatment
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Comprehensive multidisciplinary team: thoracic surgery, interventional pulmonology, anesthesia, pulmonary medicine, respiratory therapy, nursing, and perioperative care
TRACHEOBRONCHOMALACIA (TBM)
What Is TBM?
Tracheobronchomalacia is a condition where the airway walls become weak and collapse during breathing, leading to airflow obstruction and debilitating symptoms.
Common Symptoms
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Shortness of breath
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Barking cough
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Recurrent bronchitis or pneumonia
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Wheezing misdiagnosed as asthma or COPD
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Difficulty clearing secretions
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Fatigue and exercise intolerance
Why TBM Is Often Missed
TBM mimics asthma and COPD, and many patients spend years without a correct diagnosis. Specialized dynamic imaging and expert evaluation are essential.
How We Diagnose TBM
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Dynamic CT scan
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Dynamic bronchoscopy
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Pulmonary function testing
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Multidisciplinary review
Treatment Options
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Medical optimization
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Airway clearance strategies
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Stent trial (when appropriate)
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Robotic tracheobronchoplasty — the definitive surgical repair
Our Approach
We provide a comprehensive, patient‑centered evaluation that identifies the true cause of symptoms and builds a personalized treatment plan.
ROBOTIC TRACHEOBRONCHOPLASTY
What Is Robotic Tracheobronchoplasty?
A minimally invasive surgical procedure that reinforces the weakened airway using a posterior mesh splint, restoring normal airway structure and function.
Why Robotic?
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Smaller incisions
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Less pain
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Faster recovery
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Enhanced precision
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Superior visualization of the airway
History of Robotic Tracheobronchoplasty
Robotic tracheobronchoplasty represents one of the most significant advancements in airway surgery in decades.
Key Milestones
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Early open tracheobronchoplasty established the foundation for airway stabilization
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Robotic platforms introduced enhanced dexterity and visualization
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Dr. Richard Lazzaro and colleagues pioneered the robotic approach, refining techniques that improved safety, precision, and outcomes
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Today, robotic tracheobronchoplasty is considered the gold standard for definitive TBM repair in experienced centers
Who Is a Candidate?
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Severe symptomatic TBM
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Confirmed airway collapse on dynamic imaging
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Patients who benefit from a stent trial
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Individuals whose quality of life is significantly impaired
Expected Outcomes
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Improved breathing
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Reduced cough
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Fewer infections
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Increased exercise tolerance
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Enhanced quality of life
