Delayed complication of tracheocutaneous fistula closure with severe compromising subcutaneous emphysema. Issue 6 (22nd June 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Lewis, Robert J; Mandler, Ari G; Perez, Geovanny; Mudd, Pamela A
• Is Part Of: BMJ case reports. Volume 12:Issue 6(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-06-22
• Subjects: otolaryngology / ENT -- paediatric intensive care -- paediatrics -- pneumomediastinum -- head and neck surgery; Medicine -- Case studies -- Periodicals; 610.5
• DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-229526
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-790X

Abstract

Abstract : We report a significant complication after tracheocutaneous fistula (TCF) excision with closure by secondary intention in a 4-year-old boy who had been tracheostomy dependent since infancy. He had a persistent 3 mm TCF one year after decannulation. On postoperative day 2 the patient developed profound subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum. He was extubated after 2 days and discharged from the hospital on postoperative day 7. At follow up he had complete resolution of subcutaneous emphysema and complete closure of the TCF. The main methods of TCF closure and management of subcutaneous emphysema are discussed along with the lessons learned from this case.