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. 2005 Aug 31:5:6.
doi: 10.1186/1472-6815-5-6.

Tracheal ring fracture and early tracheomalacia following percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy

Eu Chin Ho  1 , Atul Kapila, William Colquhoun-Flannery
Affiliations

Tracheal ring fracture and early tracheomalacia following percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy

Eu Chin Ho et al. BMC Ear Nose Throat Disord. .

Abstract

Background: Percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) is increasingly popular within intensive care units for patients who need prolonged ventilatory support. Significant complications are rare.

Case presentation: Our patient suffered tracheal ring fracture and early tracheomalacia following this procedure. These complications are demonstrated in our accompanying video.

Conclusion: Contrary to common beliefs, tracheal rings are commonly fractured during the PDT procedure. The consequent granulation can lead to tracheal stenosis and tracheomalacia.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Fractured tracheal ring prolapsing into tracheal lumen above tracheostomy tube.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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