Management of Post-Intubation Tracheal Membrane Ruptures

Iatrogenic tracheal rupture is a rare complication after intubation. Overinflation of the tracheal cuff was speculated to be a frequent cause of tracheal rupture. The surgical approach is a widespread treatment for tracheal ruptures. The aim of this study is to evaluate the results of conservative and surgical therapy approaches in tracheal rupture cases inflicted by tracheal intubation.

Data on 12 patients who experienced tracheal ruptures secondary to intubation were reviewed. The average age of the patients was 58 years (range of 38 to 81 years). Six patients were men and 6 patients were women. Four of the patients were performed thoracotomy for primary surgery and underwent surgical therapy. 8 patients were treated conservatively. The results of both approaches were evaluated.

Patients, who underwent both conservative and surgical therapy, were completely recovered. There was no rupture originated complication or death.

Both conservative and surgical therapies are appropriate for treatment of membranous tracheal rupture.