A case of severe tracheal stenosis after short-duration endotracheal intubation

Abstract: Introduction: Post-intubation tracheal stenosis is a rare but severe condition that occurs after long-term intubation. In this study, we highlight the case of a male patient who experienced severe tracheal stenosis after a brief period of endotracheal intubation. Case Report: A 37-year-old man presented to the emergency department complaining of difficulty breathing with stridor; upon examination, the patient was noted to have stridor during both inspiration and expiration. It was discovered that ten weeks ago, he was admitted to the hospital following a motor vehicle accident and required mechanical ventilation for nine days. Given this medical history, a contrast-enhanced CT imaging of the neck was performed, which revealed grade III tracheal stenosis. The patient was transferred to a specialized center, where he underwent successful tracheal stenting. Conclusion: This case report underscores the importance of inquiring about tracheal intubation history in patients who present to the emergency department with respiratory symptoms.