Rupture of the larynx in a newborn.

Abstract

Lesions of the laryngotrachea due to repeated intubation trauma after birth are reported. A macrosomic neonate was born at term after uneventful pregnancy. On the basis of diminished uterine contractions and arrest of descent, the head was delivered by using obstetric forceps. No intubation was attempted after birth. Ten hours later, the infant developed acute life-threatening respiratory distress and subcutaneous emphysema. Intubation was impossible. Open surgical exploration of the neck revealed a rupture of the cricothyroid ligament within the larynx. The defect was closed immediately, and after artificial ventilation for 7 days, the infant was extubated. One year later, the child is developing satisfactorily, without stridor or hoarseness. In macrosomic neonates after traumatic delivery, a laryngotracheal lesion should be considered when respiratory distress syndrome combined with subcutaneous emphysema occurs.