A Sheared Metallic Tracheostomy Tube in the Right Main Bronchus: An Unforeseen Case Report

Foreign objects getting stuck in the aerodigestive tract have been known for a long time. However, it's rare for a tracheostomy tube to break and move into the air passages, but it can be dangerous. Tracheostomy is a lifesaving procedure commonly done on an elective or emergency basis to help people who need ongoing support for breathing. It's generally safe, but complications can happen early or later, such as bleeding, pneumomediastinum, tube blockage displacement, and infections. Later issues may include granulations, erosion of blood vessels, tracheostoma, and the development of a tracheoesophageal fistula. Metal tubes were used for patients requiring chronic airway support as it is relatively easier to give tracheostomy care at home, but they could break or dislodge because of rust. PVC tubes are less likely to break but can wear out with extended use, causing them to break2,3. We share our experience with a case where a broken tracheostomy tube went undetected.