Tracheal rupture in burns--a retrospective study

Abstract

Introduction: Tracheal ruptures and tracheoesophageal injuries are rare, but life-threatening complications can arise during ventilation.

Method: A retrospective study of all burned patients placed on a ventilator between 2000 and 2005 (n=1693) identified two patients (0.1%) with a tracheal rupture and tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF). The diagnoses were confirmed using endoscopy and computed tomography. The tracheal and oesophageal defects were treated surgically immediately after diagnosis using a collar approach.

Results: In all cases, withdrawal of ventilation proceeded without problems. Depending on their underlying condition, patients were transferred to normal wards with adequate spontaneous breathing and oral feeding.

Conclusion: Tracheal rupture and tracheoesophageal injury following orotracheal intubation is a rare complication in patients with burns (0.1% incidence). Following diagnosis, immediate surgical intervention is effective without further complications.