Tracheobronchial injury caused by blunt trauma.

Abstract

A review is presented of the clinical findings, diagnosis, and management in 6 patients with tracheobronchial injury. In the management, early diagnosis by bronchoscopic examination and primary surgical repair are necessary to obtain good anatomic and functional restoration. Late untreated injuries are usually complicated by massive atelectasis or stricture formation with accompanying distal infection and destruction. Massive atelectasis usually follows complete rupture, and good functional results can be anticipated with bronchial reconstruction. Stricture formation usually follows an incomplete bronchial rupture, and resection of the distal destroyed lung is necessary. Strictures following incomplete tracheal rupture result in extreme respiratory distress caused by the obstruction and require early resection of the stricture with tracheal reconstruction.