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. 2010 Aug 2:4:234.
doi: 10.1186/1752-1947-4-234.

Fractured metallic tracheostomy tube in a child: a case report and review of the literature

Patorn Piromchai  1 , Piyawadee Lertchanaruengrit, Patravoot Vatanasapt, Teeraporn Ratanaanekchai, Sanguansak Thanaviratananich
Affiliations

Fractured metallic tracheostomy tube in a child: a case report and review of the literature

Patorn Piromchai et al. J Med Case Rep. .

Abstract

Introduction: Tracheostomy is a common airway procedure for life support. The fracture of the tracheostomy tube is a rare complication. We report a case of a 14-year-old boy whose fractured stainless steel tracheostomy tube dislodged into the tracheobronchial tree. We include a literature review and proposed recommendations for tracheostomy care.

Case presentation: A 14-year-old Thai boy who had a stainless steel tracheostomy tube presented with a complaint of intermittent cough for 2 months. During tracheostomy tube cleaning, his parents found that the inner tube was missing. A chest X-ray revealed a metallic density foreign body in his right main bronchus. He underwent bronchoscopic removal of the inner tracheostomy tube and was discharged without further complications.

Conclusion: A fractured tracheostomy tube is a rare complication. Appropriate cleaning and scheduled replacement of the tracheostomy tube may prevent this complication.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Bronchoscopic view of the foreign body in the right main bronchus.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Part of inner tracheostomy tube that dislodged into the right main bronchus.
Figure 3
Figure 3
The fracture site at the junction between the inner tube and connector.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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