Pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, tracheo-esophageal fistula presenting with endotracheal intubation in post-cesarean period: A case report
2008

Case of Pneumothorax and Tracheo-Esophageal Fistula After Cesarean Section

publication Evidence: low

Author Information

Author(s): Oksuz Hafize, Senoglu Nimet, Zencirci Beyazit, Ezberci Meral, Yuzbasioglu Mehmet Fatih

Primary Institution: Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University Medical Faculty

Hypothesis

Can tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) develop as a complication of endotracheal intubation during cesarean section?

Conclusion

TEF can occur as a result of traumatic intubation, and early diagnosis and management lead to better outcomes.

Supporting Evidence

  • TEF is a rare complication of endotracheal intubation, generally occurring in less than 1% of patients.
  • High-volume, low-pressure cuffs have reduced the incidence of TEF.
  • Diagnostic methods for TEF include bronchoscopy and esophagoscopy.

Takeaway

Sometimes, when doctors put a tube in your throat to help you breathe, it can accidentally hurt your throat and cause problems like air getting trapped in your chest.

Methodology

The case was diagnosed through bronchoscopy and esophagoscopy after the patient developed respiratory distress post-extubation.

Limitations

The case report is based on a single patient, limiting generalizability.

Participant Demographics

39-year-old Caucasian female, multigravida, non-smoker.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1757-1626-1-134

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