Tracheomalcia occurs when the cartilage in the windpipe (trachea) has not developed properly.  The walls of the trachea are floppy vs rigid and breathing difficulties can occur shortly after birth.

In most cases of TM your physician may opt to leave the TM alone, allowing the infant to grow out of their TM.  In some cases of severe TM, surgical intervention may be required by means of an aortopexy.