Bronchial rupture by an unusual mechanism of thoracic hyperextension.
BACKGROUND
Tracheobronchial disruption usually occurs in the setting of blunt chest trauma and may be overlooked due to co-existing injuries and non-specific symptoms.


OBJECTIVE
Review the mechanism, diagnosis, and therapeutic management of tracheobronchial disruption.


METHODS
We present a case of a young woman with a bronchial rupture 3 weeks after accidental strangulation. Initial diagnosis was delayed due to the unusual presentation. She presented with acute respiratory failure and hemodynamic collapse after slowly progressive shortness of breath with exertion.


CONCLUSIONS
This case report provides an overview of the clinical features of bronchial disruption by highlighting the varying degrees of clinical presentation and management. Urgent bronchoscopy is indicated for diagnosis, and surgical intervention for treatment.
Soler
Xavier
X
Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Centro Médico Teknon, Barcelona, Spain.
Sell
Rebecca
R
Maestre
José
J
Ruiz-Manzano
Juan
J
D001980:Bronchi / Q000293:injuries*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D055370:Lung Injury / Q000209:etiology*; D001261:Pulmonary Atelectasis / Q000175:diagnosis; D012128:Respiratory Distress Syndrome / Q000209:etiology; D013898:Thoracic Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D014949:Wounds, Nonpenetrating / Q000150:complications*; D055815:Young Adult