Obstructive fibrinous pseudomembrane tracheitis after double-lumen tube intubation -a case report

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Pulmonology
• Critical Care

Background:

• Obstructive fibrinous pseudomembrane tracheitis (OFPT) is a rare complication associated with endotracheal intubation.
• This condition can lead to acute, life-threatening airway obstruction.

Observation:

• A case is presented of a 73-year-old woman who developed severe stridor two days post-extubation after short-term intubation for surgery.
• The patient required an emergency tracheostomy to secure the airway.

Findings:

• Microscopic direct laryngoscopy successfully removed the obstructive pseudomembrane.
• Histological examination confirmed mucosal ulcerations and inflammatory changes consistent with OFPT.
• The patient also experienced a non-ST-elevation myocardial infarction but recovered fully.

Implications:

• OFPT is an underrecognized cause of post-extubation airway emergencies.
• Early bronchoscopic intervention or microscopic direct laryngoscopy are effective treatment modalities.
• Prompt management is vital for patient recovery and preventing fatal airway compromise.