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Endotracheal intubation-induced upper airway obstruction
M E Warshawsky1, H M Shanies, M Dharawat
1Division of Pulmonary Medicine, Elmhurst Hospital Center, NY 11373, USA.
Heart & Lung : the Journal of Critical Care
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Endotracheal intubation for acute respiratory distress unexpectedly caused respiratory failure. Prompt removal of the tube led to complete recovery, highlighting risks of airway procedures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Case Reports
- Respiratory Medicine
- Anesthesiology
Background:
- Acute respiratory distress necessitates prompt airway management, often involving endotracheal intubation.
- Endotracheal intubation is a critical procedure to secure the airway and facilitate ventilation.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing endotracheal intubation for acute respiratory distress experienced subsequent respiratory failure.
- Upon removal of the endotracheal tube, the patient's respiratory failure resolved completely.
- A latex glove was expelled from the patient's mouth concurrently with tube removal.
Findings:
- The endotracheal tube, intended to alleviate respiratory distress, inadvertently caused respiratory failure.
- The presence of an undiagnosed foreign body (latex glove) likely contributed to the complication.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for endotracheal intubation to precipitate complications, even when indicated.
- Emphasizes the critical importance of thorough laryngeal visualization and inspection prior to tracheal intubation.
- Highlights the need for vigilance regarding foreign bodies in the airway during emergency procedures.