Korea's First Pediatric Airway Stent Fills Critical Medical Gap

Korea has developed its first pediatric airway stent, filling a long-standing gap in medical care. Until now, no such devices were produced or imported in the country. The new stent, designed specifically for children, aims to improve treatment for airway stenosis—a condition affecting around 100 to 200 young patients annually in Korea. The project was led by Kwon Seong-keun, a professor at Seoul National University Hospital, in collaboration with Keosan Trading. Their work was supported by a government program focused on pediatric cancer and rare diseases. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has already designated the device as a 'rare medical device'.

The new stent replaces makeshift solutions previously used for children with airway narrowing. It is tailored to the anatomy of young airways, which should lower the risk of complications. Kwon has remained closely involved with patients and their families throughout the development process. Safety testing for the device will take place this year. If successful, regulatory approval is expected in early 2025.

Once approved, the stent will provide a dedicated treatment option for children with airway stenosis in Korea. The device marks a significant step forward, as no pediatric-specific stents were previously available. Doctors will now have a safer, more precise tool for managing this rare but challenging condition.