A rare case of nonresterilized reinforced ETT obstruction caused by a structural defect: A case report.

ABSTRACT

RATIONALE Various factors can cause ventilatory failure after endotracheal tube (ETT) intubation, which is associated with increased patient morbidity and mortality. PATIENT CONCERNS A 76-year-old woman who was diagnosed with a hemopericardium and suspicion of a major-vessel injury due to dislocation of the clavicular fracture fixation screw. DIAGNOSIS Non-resterilized reinforced ETT obstruction caused by a structural defect. INTERVENTION Endotracheal tube was exchanged. OUTCOMES: The ventilator profile showed rapid improvement. LESSONS Anesthesiologists should consider that a non-resterilized reinforced ETT may be defective. An ETT defect can cause high PIP and ETT obstruction without kinking or foreign materials.