Dislocated arytenoid: an intubation-induced injury.
Three reports describing the morbidity resulting from intubation-induced arytenoid cartilage dislocation are presented. Significant factors contributing to such an injury are: retrognathia, dental malocclusion, a large tongue base and intubation inexperience. We advise that in all patients who undergo a difficult intubation the possibility of arytenoid dislocation should be considered. A ventilating bronchoscope should be readily available upon extubation, to deal with any acute airway problem that may arise. Treatment modalities are discussed and the advantages of a combined anaesthetic and ENT approach highlighted.
Tolley
N S
NS
National Hospital for Nervous Diseases, London.
Cheesman
T D
TD
Morgan
D
D
Brookes
G B
GB
D001193:Arytenoid Cartilage / Q000293:injuries*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged