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Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports 1/2010

Open Access 01-12-2010 | Case report

Fractured metallic tracheostomy tube in a child: a case report and review of the literature

Authors: Patorn Piromchai, Piyawadee Lertchanaruengrit, Patravoot Vatanasapt, Teeraporn Ratanaanekchai, Sanguansak Thanaviratananich

Published in: Journal of Medical Case Reports | Issue 1/2010

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Abstract

Introduction

Tracheostomy is a common airway procedure for life support. The fracture of the tracheostomy tube is a rare complication. We report a case of a 14-year-old boy whose fractured stainless steel tracheostomy tube dislodged into the tracheobronchial tree. We include a literature review and proposed recommendations for tracheostomy care.

Case presentation

A 14-year-old Thai boy who had a stainless steel tracheostomy tube presented with a complaint of intermittent cough for 2 months. During tracheostomy tube cleaning, his parents found that the inner tube was missing. A chest X-ray revealed a metallic density foreign body in his right main bronchus. He underwent bronchoscopic removal of the inner tracheostomy tube and was discharged without further complications.

Conclusion

A fractured tracheostomy tube is a rare complication. Appropriate cleaning and scheduled replacement of the tracheostomy tube may prevent this complication.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Fractured metallic tracheostomy tube in a child: a case report and review of the literature
Authors
Patorn Piromchai
Piyawadee Lertchanaruengrit
Patravoot Vatanasapt
Teeraporn Ratanaanekchai
Sanguansak Thanaviratananich
Publication date
01-12-2010
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Journal of Medical Case Reports / Issue 1/2010
Electronic ISSN: 1752-1947
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/1752-1947-4-234

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