Broken Metallic Tracheostomy Tube Migrating into the Tracheobronchial Tree

Abstract

Foreign body aspiration can be a life-threatening emergency. Broken tracheostomy tube in tracheobronchial tree is one of the rarest types of foreign body reported. Here we report two cases of fracture of metallic tracheostomy tube, leading to foreign body in tracheobronchial tree. A 14-year-old girl presented to our Emergency Department with history of respiratory distress and violent bouts of cough since 2 days. Chest X-ray showed that the broken part of the tube was lodged in the right main bronchus. The presence of Parkinson’s disease in the patient and restricted neck flexion offered a challenge both for the anaesthetist and the surgeon. We were successful in removing the broken tube in 13 small pieces. Check bronchoscopy was clear and the procedure went uneventful. We would like to conclude that broken tracheostomy tube presenting as foreign body bronchus is infrequent but it is a preventable complication of tarcheostomy. The patient must be kept on regular follow up to check for signs of wear and tear. Timely and periodic replacement of tracehostomy tube should also be done, otherwise such life-saving surgery can become lifethreatening.