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Esophageal obstruction in a tracheostomized infant
B M Schnapf1, J Favrot, S Dodson
1Department of Pediatrics, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa.
Chest
|December 1, 1993
Insights
Tracheostomy tubes can cause unusual esophageal obstruction in infants, leading to feeding issues. A shorter, custom tube resolved this complication, enabling normal weight gain.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Tracheostomy is a common procedure in infants for airway management.
- Esophageal complications are rare but can significantly impact infant feeding and growth.
Abstract:
Partial esophageal obstruction was an unusual complication of tracheostomy in an infant. Emesis and failure to thrive prompted a modified barium-swallow study, which revealed that the tracheostomy tube was causing an obstruction in the proximal esophagus. Use of a shorter, customized tube eliminated the esophageal obstruction, allowing normal feeding and weight gain.