Successful bronchoscopy in a pregnant patient with plastic bronchitis

Plastic bronchitis is a rare disorder, characterized by formation of thick fibrinous bronchial casts which can obstruct the airway and present as a life threatening emergency (1). It is more common in the pediatric population after corrective or palliative surgery for congenital heart disease like fontan procedure but has rarely been reported in adults as well (1). Pregnancy is a relative contraindication for bronchoscopy. Bronchoscopy in the pregnant patient poses significant risks as manipulation of the airway can lead to impaired oxygenation and ventilation. In addition, the drugs used during this procedure to provide sedation can have a direct impact on the developing fetus (2). In spite of these risks bronchoscopy should not be withheld in an emergent situation as it can be a lifesaving measure. We report a case of successful bronchoscopy using Propofol as the sedating agent in a pregnant female with plastic bronchitis who presented with respiratory distress.