Thoracotomy for tracheal disruption after traumatic intubation: a case report

Tracheal dissection is an uncommon complication of endotracheal intubation. A large source of morbidity and mortality in anesthesia is associated with airway issues. Several airway complications can be avoided or minimized by proper technique and vigilance. Emergency thoracotomy surgery is required in patients who suffer lower tracheal trauma. A tracheal tear poses additional challenges to traditional airway management, demanding vigilant planning and collaboration among the entire operative team. This case report details the airway management strategies employed during an emergent thoracotomy for a patient who suffered tracheal perforation during endotracheal intubation. A discussion of airway anatomy, airway considerations, intubation complications, and one-lung ventilation techniques is provided. Airway management techniques for one-lung ventilation are highly variable, requiring an extensive knowledge of equipment, clinical implications, and technical challenges. It is important for clinicians to be skilled in the use of several airway devices and to be prepared for any unexpected situation such as the case being presented.