Risk factors associated with post-extubation stridor in the trauma intensive care unit

Post-extubation stridor is an uncommon complication in medical intensive care units (ICUs) but has not been well studied in trauma patients. We sought to determine the incidence of reintubation due to stridor in trauma patients and describe associated risk factors.

A retrospective review of all intubated trauma patients was performed. Data collected included presence of stridor, demographic data, and details of intubation and extubation.

Of all trauma patients reintubated, 31% were for stridor. Although female gender, age less than 18, blunt mechanism, and duration of intubation 5 days or more were associated with reintubation for stridor, endotracheal tube diameter was not. Mortality was not increased with reintubation.

Trauma ICU patients are reintubated for stridor at a higher rate than medical ICU patients. Age, gender, blunt mechanism, and duration of intubation are risk factors for this complication.