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Updated: May 26, 2026
04:09
Minimal Invasive Resection of Large Retrosternal Thyroid Goiter
Published on: September 20, 2024
It sometimes happens: late tracheal rupture after total thyroidectomy.
Luca Bertolaccini1, Corrado Lauro, Roberto Priotto
1Thoracic Surgery Unit, S. Croce e Carle City Hospital, Cuneo, Italy. luca.bertolaccini@unito.it
Interactive Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery
|January 11, 2012
Summary
Thyroidectomy is generally safe, but tracheal injury can occur. This case highlights a rare tracheal rupture post-thyroidectomy, successfully managed with surgical repair and a muscle flap.
Area of Science:
- Otorhinolaryngology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Thyroidectomy is a common surgical procedure for thyroid diseases, with a low complication rate.
- Tracheal injury during thyroidectomy is rare but can lead to significant morbidity if not promptly addressed.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male developed tracheal necrosis and rupture 4 days after total thyroidectomy for non-invasive thyroid cancer.
- Symptoms included rapid swelling of the neck, face, and chest upon coughing, indicative of extensive subcutaneous emphysema.
Findings:
- Computed tomography and bronchoscopy confirmed a defect in the cervical trachea.
- Surgical exploration revealed a laceration requiring debridement and repair with a right pre-thyroid muscle flap due to local infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing rare tracheal injuries following thyroidectomy.
- Prompt surgical intervention and reconstruction with local tissue flaps can lead to favorable patient outcomes even in complex cases.
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