Pneumothorax following rigid bronchoscopy for foreign body removal in a child: A case report

Makram Tbini1, Abdelmajid Hafyene2, Chaima Ben Ammar1

  • 1ENT Department, Charles Nicolle Hospital, Boulevard du 9-Avril 1938, 1006 Tunis, Tunisia; Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University Tunis el Manar, Tunisia.

Insights

Rigid bronchoscopy can cause fatal pneumothorax in children with airway foreign bodies. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for survival after this rare complication.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Pulmonology
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Rigid bronchoscopy is a primary treatment for pediatric airway foreign bodies.
  • This procedure carries risks, including potentially fatal complications like pneumothorax.

Observation:

  • A 20-month-old child presented with a foreign body (peanut) requiring rigid bronchoscopy.
  • Post-procedure, the child developed a pre-arrest state with signs of pneumothorax.

Findings:

  • Pneumothorax was diagnosed and treated with aspiration.
  • Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was administered, and the child recovered within 3 days.

Implications:

  • This case highlights a rare but serious complication of pediatric rigid bronchoscopy.
  • Emphasizes the critical need for rapid recognition and intervention for pneumothorax post-procedure.
Abstract

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