Delayed Tracheal Perforation Following Total Thyroidectomy.

Stevens, Madelyn N; Bolduan, Alyssa; Gelbard, Alexander · Laryngoscope · 2022

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Delayed tracheal rupture following total thyroidectomy (TT) is rare and represents a potential airway emergency. A 34-year-old female with Felty Syndrome underwent TT for Hashimoto's thyroiditis. On post-operative day 10, she presented with subcutaneous emphysema and an anterolateral tracheal perforation on CT scan. Urgent operative exploration revealed transmural tracheal necrosis and a 5 mm perforation. This was oversewn with non-absorbable suture and a strap muscle flap rotated over the defect to promote healing. Repeat direct laryngoscopy at 72 hours revealed healing tissue. Tracheal necrosis and perforation following TT constitutes a potential airway emergency and should be promptly explored and repaired. Laryngoscope, 132:17-19, 2022.

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