PMC4039665_01
CT findings: a cystic mass compressing the anterior wall of the trachea (Arrow).
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Fig1
Further examination with computed tomography (CT) revealed an unenhanced tracheal mass compressing the trachea on the left (Figure  1).
The mass was of high intensity in T2-weighted MRI images.
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Fig2
The mass was of high intensity in the T2-weighted and isotense in the T1-weighted images in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (Figure  2).
Bronchoscopy shows a smooth mass, causing stenosis of the trachea.
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Fig3
Flexible bronchoscopy was performed indicating a smooth protrusion of antero-lateral wall of the trachea, and the tracheal lumen was severely occluded (Figure  3).
Interpretive findings (ab: first operation cd: second operation). a: The tracheal wall was bulging so that the mass was thought to be present intramurally. b: Mucus leaked when the wall was pinched and tracheal mucosa was exposed. c: Tracheal resection and end-to-end anastomosis was performed under operative field intubation. d: After end-to-end anastomosis.
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Fig4
The affected tracheal segment was completely resected and an end-to-end anastomosis was performed to restore the trachea (Figure  4).
The cyst wall was lined by respiratory epithelia and the wall contained cartilage.
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Fig5
The cyst wall was lined by respiratory epithelia and the wall contained cartilage (Figure  5).