Atypical presentation of tracheoesophageal fistula: immediate failure of ventilation via tracheostomy tube

Qi Yi Bong; Doh Jeing Yong; Heng Yao Tan

doi:10.18203/issn.2454-5929.ijohns20191747

Authors

Qi Yi Bong Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Doh Jeing Yong Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
Heng Yao Tan Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/issn.2454-5929.ijohns20191747

Keywords:

Prolonged ventilation, Tracheostomy, Tracheoesophageal fistula, Fibre optic bronchoscope

Abstract

Tracheoesophageal fistula (TOF) is a rare complication of prolonged endotracheal intubation. Undiagnosed TOF during tracheostomy poses a risk of improper placement of tracheostomy tube and can lead to a potentially life-threatening situation. We report a case of an undiagnosed tracheoesophageal fistula during tracheostomy in a lady in which we encountered difficulty in placement of tracheostomy tube and were eventually able to cannulate the trachea with the help of a fibre optic bronchoscope.

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Author Biography

Qi Yi Bong, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Medical Officer

Department of ORL-HNS

Queen Elizabeth Hospital

References

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