Case reports
Post-tracheostomy tracheo-oesophageal fistula – an unusual presentation
Abstract
Tracheostomy, one of the oldest known surgical procedures in the history of medicine, is regularly performed in modern intensive care units.
Acquired ulcerative tracheo-oesophageal fistula (TOF) is an uncommon but potentially fatal complication of tracheostomy. We report a case of
ulcerative TOF with an unusual yet characteristic presentation, in a ventilator-dependent tracheostomised patient with Guillain-Barré syndrome.
It presented as sudden progressive severe abdominal distension that was rhythmic with each ventilator breath. The predisposing factors, clinical
features and preventive measures of post-tracheostomy TOF are discussed in this case report. Regular monitoring of tracheal tube cuff pressures
and volumes, along with avoidance and treatment of various predisposing factors, are advisable for the prevention of this serious consequence.
Authors' affiliations
Deepa Chandramohan, Goa Medical College, Goa, India
Shaila S Kamat, Goa Medical College, Goa, India
Ravindran V, Goa Medical College, Goa, India
Full Text
PDF (90KB)Keywords
Cite this article
Article History
Date published: 2016-07-26
Article Views
Full text views: 1227
Comments on this article
*Read our policy for posting comments here