Acquired tracheomalacia is a weakness and floppiness of the
walls of the windpipe (trachea) that develops after birth. See
also: Congenital tracheomalacia Acquired tracheomalacia is very
uncommon. Rarely, babies, infants, and adults may develop the
condition. It occurs when normal cartilage in the wall of the
windpipe begins to break down. Acquired, or secondary,
tracheomalacia may result: - From pressure on the airway by
large blood vessels - As a complication after surgical repair of
a tracheo-esophagela fistula or esophageal atresia - After
having a breathing tube or tracheostomy for a long time -
Breathing problems that get worse with coughing, crying, or
upper respiratory infections - Breathing noises that may change
with position and improve during sleep - High-pitched breathing
- Rattling, noisy breaths A physical examination confirms the
symptoms. A chest x-ray may show narrowing of the trachea when
exhaling. Even if the x-ray is normal, it is needed to rule out
other problems. A procedure called a la