Spontaneous Tracheal Rupture: A Case Report

Background

Upper-airway disruption is a rare but potentially life-threatening phenomenon. It can occur spontaneously, be due to trauma, or be iatrogenically induced. Even more rare are such events reported in the pediatric population.

Objective

This article discusses the presentation, diagnostic difficulties, and management of spontaneous tracheal rupture in a child.

Case Report

A 3-year-old boy was brought by emergency medical services to our emergency department with a presumptive diagnosis of anaphylaxis. With progressive swelling and respiratory distress, the patient quickly deteriorated. He received i.v. epinephrine, chest compressions, and bag-valve mask ventilation. He was intubated without difficulty and with no noted airway edema. Concomitant bilateral needle thoracostomies were performed and subsequent bilateral tube thoracostomies were placed. Immediately after intubation and chest tube placements, the patient's oxygen saturations and heart rate improved. Bronchoscopy failed to demonstrate any evident pathology. However, computed tomography scan revealed a defect in the posterior wall of the trachea proximal to the termination of the endotracheal tube. Cardiothoracic surgery was consulted and performed a primary repair of the tracheal defect. The patient was extubated soon after surgery, and he was discharged home neurologically intact.

Conclusions

The initial presentation of spontaneous tracheal rupture can be misleading and difficult to diagnose. After resuscitation, stabilization, and diagnosis, both surgical repair and nonoperative management have been reported as successful treatment measures for tracheal disruption.