A Rare Cause of Acute Dyspnoea: Reinke Oedema

Reinke oedema is a benign condition due to fluid collection within subepithelial space of the true vocal fold. This phenomenon is predisposed by chronic smoking, alcohol consumption and contribution of laryngopharyngeal reflux. Although benign, it may be life threatening when bilateral vocal folds are affected causing airway obstruction. In this report, awake tracheostomy was performed for a 65- year- old lady with stridor secondary to severe Reinke oedema. The importance of establishing a definitive airway is highlighted here in securing a difficult airway.

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12070-023-03714-4.