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Epiglottic prolapse induced by lighted stylet tracheal intubation.
Naoyuki Ikegami1, Aya Kikuchi, Sunao Tamai
1Department of Anesthesiology, Shizuoka Cancer Center, 1007 Shimonagakubo, Nagaizumi-cho, Suntoh-gun, Shizuoka 411-8777, Japan. n.ikegami@scchr.jp
Journal of Anesthesia
|February 3, 2011
Summary
Lighted stylet tracheal intubation can cause epiglottic prolapse, a rare complication leading to airway obstruction. Early recognition and intervention are crucial for patient safety during procedures.
Area of Science:
- Anesthesiology
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- A 68-year-old male underwent endoscopic mucosal resection for orolaryngeal cancer.
- Lighted stylet intubation was chosen to preserve delicate endoscopic findings.
Observation:
- Post-intubation endoscopy revealed epiglottic prolapse into the laryngeal vestibule.
- Initial extubation and re-intubation attempts failed to resolve the obstruction.
Findings:
- The epiglottis was restored to its normal position using endoscopic forceps after reintubation.
- Preoperative endoscopy indicated a thin epiglottis prone to posterior pharyngeal wall adhesion.
Implications:
- Epiglottic prolapse is a rare but significant complication of lighted stylet intubation.
- Awareness of this complication is vital to prevent potential upper airway obstruction.
- Prompt recognition and endoscopic management are key to successful outcomes.
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