The trachea and major bronchi contain cartilaginous rings. These
rings function to prevent collapse of the structure during
respiration. During inspiration, a negative pressure force is
created within the thoracic cavity by the flattening of the
diaphragm and action of the intercostal muscles to raise the ribs.
If the trachea were not internally supported, the negative pressure
would result in its collapse, preventing air movement and gas
exchange.
Tracheomalacia or laryngomalacia is a congenital disorder seen
in young children in which the tracheal rings are incomplete or
weak and this exact scenario occurs - during inspiration, the
trachea collapses and the child cannot breathe and develops
respiratory distress.