[Post-obstructive pulmonary edema as a complication of endotracheal tube obstruction]

Abstract

Pulmonary edema following acute or chronic upper airway obstruction is a threatening complication. A case is presented in which a 15 year old boy developed a massive pulmonary edema after a acute endotracheal tube obstruction during emergence from anesthesia. Leading pathophysiologic cause for the formation of the edema is a markedly negative intrapleural pressure due to the forceful inspiration against the obstructed airway. Treatment modalities include the instantaneous solution of the obstruction, a rapid reoxigenation and the ventilation with PEEP or CPAP. Sound knowledge of the disease increases the vigilance of the caring anaesthesiologist and helps to identify patients at risk. Preventing measures may further reduce the risk of occurrence of the postobstructive pulmonary edema.