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Postobstructive pulmonary edema following accidental near-hanging
Adnane Mohamed Berdai1, Smael Labib, Mustapha Harandou
1Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Hassan II, Fes, Morocco.
The American Journal of Case Reports
|September 12, 2013
Summary
Postobstructive pulmonary edema (POPE) is a rare but serious condition following upper airway obstruction. Early recognition and intensive care management, including ventilatory support, led to a full recovery in a pediatric near-hanging case.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Intensive Care
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Postobstructive pulmonary edema (POPE) is a rare, life-threatening complication after upper airway obstruction relief.
- POPE is seldom seen in children, typically occurring after non-fatal hanging incidents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an unusual clinical course of POPE in a pediatric patient.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management of POPE.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 14-year-old female presenting with symptoms of POPE after near-hanging.
- Management included controlled ventilatory support with high-level positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP).
Main Results:
- The patient exhibited chest indrawing, low SpO2 (81%), and bilateral pulmonary crepitations.
- Chest X-ray revealed diffuse bilateral infiltrates consistent with pulmonary edema.
- Successful weaning from mechanical ventilation and extubation occurred on the third day, with full recovery.
Conclusions:
- This case underscores the critical need for prompt recognition of POPE in pediatric near-hanging incidents.
- Appropriate intensive care, including PEEP ventilation, facilitates favorable outcomes and complete recovery.
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