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Endotracheal Intubation via Tracheotomy and Subsequent Thoracotomy in Rats for Non-Survival Applications
Published on: March 15, 2024
Neonatal tracheal rupture complicating endotracheal intubation: a case report and indications for conservative
K Meghan Doherty1, Abtin Tabaee, Maricor Castillo
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, 520 East 70th Street, Starr 541, New York, NY 10021, USA.
Insights
Neonatal tracheal rupture, a rare endotracheal intubation complication, can be fatal. This case report highlights successful expectant management in a newborn, suggesting conservative approaches may be viable.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Pediatric Surgery
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Neonatal tracheal injury is a rare but serious complication of endotracheal intubation.
- High morbidity and mortality rates (75%) are associated with rapid subcutaneous emphysema, respiratory failure, and death.
Observation:
- A case of a newborn sustaining tracheal rupture after traumatic intubation is presented.
- The infant survived following expectant (conservative) management.
Findings:
- Successful expectant management of neonatal tracheal rupture is possible.
- Conservative treatment may be an alternative to surgical intervention in select cases.
Implications:
- Prompt recognition and evaluation are crucial for managing neonatal tracheal injuries.
- This case suggests a potential role for conservative management in neonatal tracheal rupture.
- Further research is needed to establish clear guidelines for managing this rare injury.
Abstract:
Neonatal tracheal injury represents a rare complication of endotracheal intubation. Previous case reports have demonstrated high morbidity and mortality (75%) associated with the rapid occurrence of subcutaneous emphysema, respiratory failure and death in this patient population. This mandates the prompt recognition, evaluation and management of this injury in the neonate. Although there is no clear consensus, previous authors have described both surgical therapy and expectant management. We report a case of a newborn who sustained tracheal rupture following traumatic intubation who survived with expectant management. The pathophysiology, management and indications for conservative management of neonatal tracheal rupture are reviewed.
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