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Abstract Post-orotracheal intubation tracheal injuries are rare but potentially fatal events. The data in the literature show differences in incidence for single-lumen and double-lumen tube intubations. Esophageal involvement may evolve into mediastinitis with poor prognosis. Treatment depends on the location of the lesion, size, extent and the patient's status. Timing and multidisciplinary team evaluation is mandatory for best decision. In a multi-centric observational study between January 2018 and December 2021 we observed 6 consecutive patients with iatrogenic post oro tracheal intubation tracheo-esophageal laceration underwent to multidisciplinary management. 4 patients were treated with end-to-end tracheal resection and anastomosis and closure of the esophageal fistula with cervicotomy access + interposed muscle flap without esophageal exclusion 1 patient was treated with tracheostomy and anterior fistula repair with cervicotomy access + esophageal exclusion 1 patient was treated conservatively for poor performance status. Surgical treatment was within 12 hours from diagnosis. 30-days mortality was observed in one case. Post-orotracheal intubation tracheal injuries are rare but potentially fatal events. Fast and multidisciplinary decision with aggressive treatment are the goal to improve results and reduce mortality.
Russo et al. (Thu,) studied this question.