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Published in: Pediatric Radiology 6/2003

01-06-2003 | Case Report

Traumatic retropharyngeal emphysema as a cause for severe respiratory distress in a newborn

Authors: Dan M. Barlev, Beth A. Nagourney, Ronald Saintonge

Published in: Pediatric Radiology | Issue 6/2003

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Abstract

Traumatic injury to the pharynx or esophagus in a newborn from intubation or tube suctioning may have various presentations. Difficulty passing a gastric tube or feeding problems may erroneously suggest the diagnosis of esophageal atresia. Associated respiratory distress may be caused by pneumothorax or pleural effusion if the pleural space is entered. We report the case of a full-term newborn presenting with severe respiratory distress caused by a large retropharyngeal air collection resulting from hypopharyngeal perforation from prior intubation and suctioning. Chest abnormality, sufficient to account for the degree of respiratory distress, was not demonstrated.
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Metadata
Title
Traumatic retropharyngeal emphysema as a cause for severe respiratory distress in a newborn
Authors
Dan M. Barlev
Beth A. Nagourney
Ronald Saintonge
Publication date
01-06-2003
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Pediatric Radiology / Issue 6/2003
Print ISSN: 0301-0449
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1998
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-003-0886-9

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