Massive subcutaneous emphysema following percutaneous tracheostomy.
BACKGROUND: Bronchoscopic subcutaneous dilatational tracheostomy is fast becoming the method of choice for securing an airway in chronic ventilated patients in an intensive care setting. Many studies have demonstrated that it is a cost-effective and safe procedure in experienced hands. Complications appear to be equivalent to those encountered in open tracheostomy. Subcutaneous emphysema following tracheostomy is a rare occurrence. Only 3 cases have been described following percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy. Management can be quite complex. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective review with case report of a patient with massive subcutaneous emphysema following percutaneous tracheostomy. CONCLUSION: Massive subcutaneous emphysema following percutaneous tracheostomy is a major complication that is rarely encountered. When due to a posterior tracheal wall tear, management consists of bypassing the laceration and allowing it to heal secondarily.
Duke Scholars
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Related Subject Headings
- Tracheostomy
- Subcutaneous Emphysema
- Severity of Illness Index
- Radiography
- Postoperative Complications
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Humans
- Female
- Aged
- 3203 Dentistry
Citation
Published In
DOI
ISSN
Publication Date
Volume
Issue
Start / End Page
Location
Related Subject Headings
- Tracheostomy
- Subcutaneous Emphysema
- Severity of Illness Index
- Radiography
- Postoperative Complications
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Humans
- Female
- Aged
- 3203 Dentistry