Chapter 19 - Tracheal trauma

Question 1

Why may intrathoracic tracheal rupture occur in cats following blunt trauma?

Answer 1

Hyperextension of the neck causes violent stretching of the trachea, which may rupture cranial to its fixation at the carina.

Question 2

Why do some cats with intrathoracic tracheal rupture not appear overtly dyspnoeic on presentation?

Answer 2

The peritracheal adventitia and mediastinum may initially provide continuity of the intrathoracic airway.

Question 3

List 4 potential causes of tracheal tears secondary to intubation.

Answer 3

1. overinflation of the endotracheal tube cuff (especially low-volume, high-pressure cuffs)
2. improper tube placement
3. injury from the use of a stylet
4. failure to deflate the cuff before repositioning or removing the tube