Life threatening complications after unsuccessful attempt of the guidewire dilating forceps tracheostomy in multi-trauma patient with cervical spine injury

Coll Antropol. 2009 Dec;33(4):1409-13.

Abstract

Percutaneous tracheostomy (PCT) is a safe method under proper patient selection, increased technical experience and bronchoscopy- or ultrasound-guided procedure. Trauma patients with cervical spine fractures and spinal cord injury are at a high risk for respiratory failure and require a definitive airway followed by prolonged mechanical ventilation. We would like to present multiple, life- threatening complications after unsuccessful attempt of the guidewire dilating forceps tracheostomy (GWDF) in one trauma patient with a cervical spine injury. With this case report we would like to lay emphasis on the importance of continuously bronchoscopy- or ultrasound-guided PTC in trauma patients, especially with cervical spine injury, as the need to respect the steep-learning curve in its performance.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Bronchoscopy
  • Cervical Vertebrae / injuries
  • Esophageal Perforation / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mediastinal Emphysema / etiology*
  • Minimally Invasive Surgical Procedures
  • Multiple Trauma / therapy
  • Pneumothorax / etiology*
  • Spinal Fractures / therapy
  • Trachea / injuries*
  • Tracheostomy / adverse effects*
  • Tracheostomy / instrumentation