Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 17, 2026

04:43
Endotracheal Intubation via Tracheotomy and Subsequent Thoracotomy in Rats for Non-Survival Applications
Published on: March 15, 2024
Pneumothorax following tracheostomy and its management
K Salil Kumar1, P Muraleedharan Nampoothiri, R Suma
1Dept. of ENT, MCH, Calicut, Kerala.
Summary
Bilateral pneumothorax, a rare complication of tracheostomy, occurred in a patient with glottic carcinoma. This report details the management of this rare event following emergency tracheostomy.
Area of Science:
- Medicine
- Pulmonology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Tracheostomy is a common procedure for airway management.
- Pneumothorax is a recognized complication of tracheostomy.
- Bilateral pneumothorax following tracheostomy is exceptionally rare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of bilateral pneumothorax after emergency tracheostomy.
- To discuss the subsequent management of this complication.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with glottic carcinoma.
- Documented development of bilateral pneumothorax post-emergency tracheostomy.
- Reviewed management strategies for this specific complication.
Main Results:
- The patient developed bilateral pneumothorax after emergency tracheostomy.
- Successful management of the bilateral pneumothorax was achieved.
Conclusions:
- Bilateral pneumothorax is a rare but serious complication of tracheostomy.
- Prompt recognition and appropriate management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Pneumothorax-II
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
Tracheostomy: Procedure and Tubes
A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an artificial opening into the trachea, typically at the second or third cartilaginous ring level. This opening allows the insertion of a tracheostomy tube, which can replace an endotracheal tube, provide mechanical ventilation, bypass an upper airway obstruction, or remove accumulated tracheobronchial secretions.
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...
Tracheostomy tubes can be made of semiflexible plastic (polyurethane or silicone), rigid plastic, or metal, and they come in...
Oxygen Delivering System III: Tracheostomy and T-piece
Oxygen delivery is critical in clinical care, especially for patients with respiratory disorders or those undergoing surgical procedures. Various systems, such as tracheostomy and the T-piece, deliver oxygen to the lungs, ensuring adequate arterial oxygenation.
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
Tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgically created opening (stoma) in the anterior part of the trachea. It is used to establish a patient airway, bypass an upper airway obstruction, simplify the removal of secretions, permit long-term...
Tracheostomy Care I: Pre-procedural Steps
A tracheostomy is a surgical technique that involves making an incision in the neck to provide access to the trachea. It is frequently used in medical conditions such as airway obstruction and prolonged mechanical ventilation. Effective nursing management is crucial for the long-term success of a tracheostomy.
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Required Equipment
The equipment necessary for tracheostomy care includes:
Tracheostomy Decannulation
Tracheostomy decannulation is a significant milestone in the liberation of mechanically ventilated patients. Despite its importance, there is no universally accepted protocol for this procedure. This demands an evidence-based, individualized approach.
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Description of the Procedure
Decannulation refers to the permanent removal of the tracheostomy tube, signaling the resolution of the condition that initially necessitated the tracheostomy. The process requires a well-coordinated interplay between...
Pneumothorax-I
A pneumothorax is a condition where air builds up in the space between the lung and the chest wall, causing the lung to collapse. This condition arises when air enters the space between the parietal and visceral pleura, disrupting the negative pressure essential for lung inflation. This can lead to a partial or complete collapse of the lung.
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.
Pneumothorax can be even further classified as spontaneous, traumatic, and tension pneumothorax.

