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Updated: Sep 19, 2025

The Rigid Tube as an Alternative in Controlling the Problematic Airway
Published on: June 6, 2020
Fractured Metallic Tracheostomy Tube as an Unusual Foreign Body in The Left Main Bronchus: A Case Report
Mohammad Fityani1, Yazan Juma1, Mohammed Omari1
1Medical Research Club, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Quds University, Jerusalem, Palestine.
Introduction:
Tracheostomy is a vital airway procedure for critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure. This study presents a rare but serious complication: the fracture and migration of a tracheostomy tube into the tracheobronchial tree, and discusses its management.
Case Presentation:
A 43-year-old male, with a tracheostomy tube in place for 8 years following a neck blast injury, presented with a foreign body in his airway. Chest X-ray revealed a fractured metallic tracheostomy tube lodged in the left main bronchus. The tube was successfully removed by rigid bronchoscopy under general anesthesia, and the patient was discharged in good condition with a new tracheostomy tube.
Discussion:
Tracheostomy tubes, typically made of polyvinyl chloride or metal, can fracture due to prolonged use without regular check-ups, or replacement. Patients may present with mild respiratory symptoms or be asymptomatic. Diagnosis is confirmed by X-ray, and removal is performed via rigid bronchoscopy.
Conclusion:
Fractured tracheostomy tubes are a rare but potentially fatal complication requiring urgent bronchoscopy. Regular follow-up, proper care, timely tube replacement, and patient education are essential to prevent such occurrences.
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