Tracheoesophageal fistula in a patient with a Left Ventricular Assist Device. Issue 2 (27th July 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Maxymiv, Nicolas; Broughton, Kirbie; Thakrar, Shilen
• Is Part Of: Anaesthesia cases. Volume 5:Issue 2(2017)
• Page Start: 12
• Page End: 17
• Publication Date: 2017-07-27
• Subjects: 617.9605
• DOI: 10.21466/ac.TFIAPWA.2017
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2396-8397

Abstract

Summary: Tracheo‐oesophageal fistula (TOF) is a rare complication associated with mechanically ventilated critically ill patients. Predisposing risk factors include high tracheal tube cuff pressure, and the presence of an orogastric tube. We present a case of TOF in a critically ill patient with a left ventricular assist device. Anaesthetists are often called to manage an airway for a displaced tracheal tube or one with a suspected cuff leak. Exchanging a tracheal tube is not without risk. Tracheo‐oesophageal fistula may present in a similar fashion to a leaking or displaced tracheal tube and it is critical to ensure that this diagnosis is not missed.