The Role of Tracheostomy in Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma

Even though management of thyroid cancer is generally standardized and has an overall excellent long-term outcome, anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) continues to be a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. ATC is an uncommon thyroid malignancy with a poor prognosis. American Thyroid Association guidelines acknowledge the complexity of airway management in these patients. We studied the literature with the aim of providing guidance in airway management in ATC. Tracheotomy can facilitate completion of palliative treatment in those patients with ATC and stridor. Given the short life expectancy of these patients, a balanced decision must be made regarding the role and timing of tracheotomy.