Korean J Thorac Cardiovasc Surg.  2007 Jan;40(1):79-82.

Complete Transsection of the Trachea by Blunt Trauma

• Kim DH
• Yoo BH
• Kim HY
• Hwang SW

Abstract

Tracheobronchial rupture due to blunt chest trauma is an uncommon injury although the incidence is increasing. Early diagnosis and primary repair of tracheobronchial rupture not only restore a normal lung function but also avoid the difficulties and complications associated with delayed diagnosis and repair. We present one case of the tracheal transsection caused by traffic accident. Patient suffered from progressive dyspnea, subcutaneous emphysema on the neck and anterior chest wall and tension pneumothorax at both sides were noted. Although both closed thoracostomy were done, massive air leakage through the chest tube continued and subcutaneous emphysema spread to the anterior abdominal wall and scrotum and the degree of dyspnea aggravated. With the impression of tracheobronchial injury, we performed the emergency operation. Preoperative bronchoscopy at the operation room was proceeded, which revealed the trachea was near totally transsected in transverse direction. Operation was performed through collar incision on the anterior neck, and the trachea was anastomosed with 4-0 Vicryl(R) interruptedly. Postoperative course were uneventful and patient discharged without any complications.

Keyword

Tracheal injury; Blunt trauma

MeSH Terms

Abdominal Wall
Accidents, Traffic
Bronchoscopy
Chest Tubes
Delayed Diagnosis
Dyspnea
Early Diagnosis
Emergencies
Humans
Incidence
Lung
Neck
Pneumothorax
Rupture
Scrotum
Subcutaneous Emphysema
Thoracic Wall
Thoracostomy
Thorax
Trachea*