JFK Advanced Lung and Airway Center

The Advanced Lung and Airway Center at Hackensack Meridian Health - JFK University Medical Center treats patients with a variety of disorders both cancerous and non cancerous that impact breathing such as wheezing or shortness of breath. The Program is led by a team of internationally-renowned experts who have pioneered treatment and research of the lung and trachea. Our multidisciplinary team includes thoracic surgeons, ear, nose and throat surgeons (ENT), pulmonologists, interventional pulmonologists, and specialized lung and airway radiologists.

Lung and airway disorders are often complex and require comprehensive evaluation and specialized procedures. Symptoms from lung and airway disorders may resemble other lung conditions or medical problems. An accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure proper and timely treatment.  JFK University Medical Center has an expert team, state-of-the-art diagnostics and treatment technology. Our specialists develop a personalized care plan for each individual patient.

Lung and Airway Diseases and Cancers

Airway diseases include non-cancerous and cancerous disorders of the windpipes that affect speech and breathing. These disorders develop in the windpipes that travel from the larynx to the lungs. There are many forms of airway diseases that are often misdiagnosed as other lung conditions such as asthma, chronic bronchitis or emphysema. Other disorders are often caused by prolonged intubation, tracheostomy or auto-immune disorders.  Cancers include tumors of the lung, larynx or thyroid and can also be caused by tumors from other regions of the body such as the breasts, kidney, colon and skin which have spread to the thoracic region. 

Conditions We Treat 

• Tracheal or bronchial tumor
• Tracheal stenosis, Bronchial stenosis, Subglottic stenosis
• Tracheobronchomalacia
• Tracheoesophageal fistula
• Tracheostomy-related problems (granulation tissue, stoma issues)

Symptoms

• Chest congestion, with inability to clear mucus
• Hoarseness
• Severe coughing that sounds like a barking seal
• Shortness of breath with exercise or exertion and even at rest
• Stridor (a high-pitched sound during inhaling or exhaling)
• Wheezing sounds as you breathe out

Treatment Options 

Hackensack Meridian provides innovative techniques, exceptional skill and excellent outcomes.

• Airway and endo-laryngeal stenting
• Bronchoscopy ablation therapy
• Endobronchial valve for advanced Emphysema
• Laryngoscopy or bronchoscopy with balloon or rigid dilation
• Laser therapy
• Light therapy
• Steroid injections
• Surgery and reconstruction

Meet the Team