Review of tracheo-esophageal fistula associated with endotracheal intubation.
Tracheo-esophageal fistula (TEF) formation is a rare complication of either endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy. This complication is generally thought to be iatrogenic and occurs in less than 1% of patients. High-volume, low-pressure cuffs have made TEFs an infrequent occurrence; however, it still poses as a potential life-threatening condition. Evaluation and close monitoring of endotracheal tube (ETT) cuff pressures is an area of significance commonly overlooked and/or underemphasized by surgical residents. To illustrate and review this clinical problem, a case of an iatrogenic TEF as a consequence of excessive endotracheal cuff pressures is reported.
Mooty
Robert C
RC
Department of Surgery, Methodist Health Systems, Dallas, Texas 75203, USA. mooty.c@lycos.com
Rath
Paul
P
Self
Michael
M
Dunn
Ernest
E
Mangram
Alicia
A
D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011312:Pressure; D014138:Tracheoesophageal Fistula / Q000209:etiology*