Epiglottic prolapse induced by lighted stylet tracheal intubation

Abstract

We report a case of epiglottic prolapse induced by lighted stylet tracheal intubation perceived by following upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. A 68-year-old male was to undergo endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) under general anesthesia for a superficial orolarynx cancer spreading over the root of the tongue. Because the mucosal change was so minimal, intubation was performed with a lighted stylet instead of a direct laryngoscope, to prevent its metal blade spoiling the delicate endoscopic findings. After intubation, endoscopy revealed that the epiglottis folded down completely into the laryngeal vestibule. Immediate extubation with a ventilating tube exchanger failed to turn the entrapped epiglottis back to normal, and the inlet of the larynx remained obstructed. After reintubation, the epiglottis was restored to its normal position with endoscopic forceps. The postoperative course was uneventful and he was discharged on the sixth postoperative day. Retrospective evaluation of preoperative gastrointestinal endoscopy showed the epiglottis was flat and thin enough to have a tendency to become attached to the posterior pharynx wall, even though the procedure was performed in the decubitus position. Epiglottic prolapse induced by lighted stylet tracheal intubation is a quite rare complication but we should be aware of it as a potential injury which could cause upper airway obstruction if not recognized before extubation.