Iatrogenic Post-intubation Tracheal Injury: An Emergency Room Presentation in a 17-year-old Girl

Abstract

Iatrogenic tracheal injury is a rare complication after endotracheal intubation. Mucosal injury should be identified, and it is importantto rule out pneumomediastinum and pneumothorax. The diagnosis is based on clinical and endoscopic findings and chest computedtomography. Broad-spectrum antibiotics should be given to avoid mediastinitis. We report a patient with a 5 mm tracheal lacerationand significant subcutaneous emphysema after endotracheal intubation. The true incidence of this complication is unknown and earlyrecognition warrants better outcomes.