Tracheal bronchus: a cause of prolonged atelectasis in intubated children

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Updated: Oct 30, 2026

Guidelines for Elective Pediatric Fiberoptic Intubation
11:19

Guidelines for Elective Pediatric Fiberoptic Intubation

Published on: January 17, 2011

B P O'Sullivan1, J J Frassica, S M Rayder

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, University of Massachusetts Medical Center, Worcester, USA.

Chest
|March 14, 1998
PubMed

Insights

A tracheal bronchus, an airway anomaly in 2% of people, can cause persistent right upper lobe atelectasis in intubated children. Early identification is key for appropriate airway management and preventing complications.

Area of Science:

  • Anatomy
  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Tracheal bronchus is a congenital anomaly affecting approximately 2% of the population.
  • This anomaly can lead to localized pulmonary complications, particularly in pediatric patients requiring endotracheal intubation.

Observation:

  • Two cases are presented involving children with complex medical histories necessitating endotracheal intubation.
  • Both patients experienced persistent right upper lobe atelectasis during their hospital stay.

Findings:

  • The presence of a tracheal bronchus was initially unrecognized in both pediatric cases.
  • Identifying this anatomical variant was crucial for modifying airway management strategies.

Implications:

  • Tracheal bronchus should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intubated patients presenting with right upper lobe atelectasis.
  • Early recognition and appropriate airway management are essential for optimizing outcomes in patients with this anomaly.

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