Korean J Anesthesiol.  2007 Aug;53(2):274-276. 10.4097/kjae.2007.53.2.274.

Pulmonary Edema after Staging Exicision of Bilateral Carotid Body Tumor: A case report

• Ki YM
• Kong MH
• Oh HR
• Lee IO
• Lee MK

• KMID: 2243393
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4097/kjae.2007.53.2.274

Abstract

We report a case of pulmonary edema developed in a 33-year-old female who underwent two-stage bilateral carotid body tumor excision. About 1 month ago, she had undergone a left carotid body tumor excision. After the operation, her tongue was deviated to left side. Bilateral hypoglossal nerve injury was suspected. These injuries should be carefully monitored in patients who will undergo a similar procedure on both sides because a bilateral deficit of the hypoglossal nerve is poorly tolerated, resulting potentially serious pulmonary edema. In recovery room, she became pale and SpO2 was fall down. We reintubated her immediately and the pulmonary edema was treated using a supportive management. She was discharged without any signs of dyspnea or airway obstruction, but hypoglossal nerve injury remained. We discuss the possible etiology of the upper airway obstruction after the neck surgery and review the literatures associated with the pulmonary edema following upper airway obstruction.

Keyword

airway obstruction; carotid body tumor; hypoglossal nerve palsy; pulmonary edema

MeSH Terms

Adult
Airway Obstruction
Carotid Body Tumor*
Carotid Body*
Dyspnea
Female
Humans
Hypoglossal Nerve
Hypoglossal Nerve Diseases
Hypoglossal Nerve Injuries
Neck
Pulmonary Edema*
Recovery Room
Tongue