Tracheal rupture following blunt chest trauma presenting as endotracheal tube obstruction

In this report, we describe a patient in whom a tracheal tear followed blunt thoracic trauma. The diagnosis was made late resulting in problems with ventilation, endotracheal tube obstruction and cardiac arrest. Difficulties with early recognition of tracheobronchial injuries may be caused by non-specific findings as well as the lack of exposure of physicians to patients with these injuries. The signs and symptoms of tracheobronchial injuries are described, as well as their differential diagnoses. A review of airway management has been made as it requires combined anaesthetic and surgical expertise. Injuries of the trachea may have severe, life-threatening consequences and early diagnosis and management reduce morbidity and mortality.