Recognition and Management of Life-Threatening Tracheovascular Fistulae and How to Prevent Them

Abstract

Formation of a fistula between trachea and a major artery or vein in the root of the neck threatens life quickly from combination of major external bleeding and hemorrhagic shock, and asphyxiation from flooding of the proximal airways with blood. This complication can occur after cervical tracheostomy open or percutaneous, tracheal resection, cervical exentration and anterior mediastinal tracheostomy, and laryngectomy. The recognition of its occurrence is clinical based on a high index of clinical suspicion. The life-saving operation for this complication carries potential risk for ischemic stroke. Impairment of arterial perfusion to the right arm and ischemia is another potential complication.

Keywords: Carotid artery; Diagnosis; Hemoptysis; Innominate artery; Laryngectomy; Management; Tracheal operations; Vascular fistula.