What is tracheomalacia?

Tracheomalacia is defined as a condition characterized by the presence of floppy or weakened walls of the trachea. This occurs due to improper development or malformation of the cartilage that supports the trachea, which can lead to airway obstruction, especially during breathing.

In normal anatomy, the trachea is held open by C-shaped cartilaginous rings that provide rigidity while still allowing for some flexibility. In tracheomalacia, these cartilage structures may be underdeveloped, leading to collapsibility of the trachea, particularly during expiration or when there's increased pressure in the airway. This can cause breathing difficulties and is often seen in infants, although it can occur in adults as well.

Understanding tracheomalacia is crucial for recognizing how airway integrity is maintained and what happens when structural weaknesses are present. This highlights its importance in both clinical assessments of respiratory health and in the management of patients with obstructive airway conditions.