Korean J Anesthesiol.  1998 May;34(5):1046-1050. 10.4097/kjae.1998.34.5.1046.

Pneumomediastinum and Subcutaneous Emphysema after Use of Metallic Endotracheal Tube for Laser Operation: A case report

• Yun MJ
• Park JY
• Hwang JH

• KMID: 2237666
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.1998.34.5.1046

Abstract

We report a case of pneumomediastinum, subcutaneous emphysema, and mild pneumothorax that occurred after endotracheal intubation with a metallic endotracheal tube for the laser operation. Fortunately, pneumomediastinum and subcutaneous emphysema were self-limited. But potentially life-threatening events such as upper airway obstruction, tension pneumothorax, pneumopericardium, mediastinitis might be possible. These complications may result from mucosal perforation of upper airway. The use of a tube with rigid and relatively narrower internal diameter than polyvinylchloride endotracheal tube, tough endotracheal intubation technique, high peak inspiratory pressure, suction technique and negative pressure are included as complication factors.

Keyword

Intubation; tracheal: complications; pneumomediastinum; subcutaneous emphysema

MeSH Terms

Airway Obstruction
Intubation, Intratracheal
Mediastinal Emphysema*
Mediastinitis
Pneumopericardium
Pneumothorax
Subcutaneous Emphysema*
Suction