Recurrent fracture of outer metallictracheostomy tube into right main bronchus.

Abstract

Tracheostomy is a common airway procedure for life support. Fracture of tracheostomy tube is a rare complication. We report an unusual case who had recurrent fractured metallic outer tracheostomy tube dislodging into tracheobronchial tree. A 11 year old girl who underwent tracheostomy for Idiopathic bilateral abductor palsy, presented with sudden onset of difficulty in breathing and stridor. Chest X-ray revealed a metallic tube occupying trachea to right bronchus. Removal under general anaesthesia was extremely difficult though successful finally. After 2yrs she presented with same situation which necessitated emergency removal under rigid bronchoscopy. We report this case of dislodged tracheostomy tube twice in a 11 year old because of its recurrence, unique presentation and difficulty in retrieval