Dislodged Denture in a Patient on High-flow Nasal Cannula: A Rare Mechanical Complication

A man in his 70s presented with dyspnea and a seizure, requiring intubation for suspected status epilepticus. Following extubation and treatment for a COPD exacerbation, persistent hypoxemia led to high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy. However, his condition worsened with increased work of breathing and inability to speak. Chest radiography revealed a dislodged denture in the upper airway. Emergency reintubation and removal of the denture led to rapid clinical improvement, and he was extubated the next day. While denture dislodgement has been reported with bag-mask ventilation and BiPAP, this is the first case associated with HFNC. This case underscores the need to assess for dentures in patients requiring advanced respiratory support to prevent such complications.