Severe Systemic Subcutaneous Emphysema Associated with Tracheal Tear after Intubation

Tracheal tear or laceration during intubation is rare. We report a geriatric female developing extensive subcutaneous emphysema after urgent endotracheal intubation. Computed tomography showed tracheal rupture. Under the assistance of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, primary repair of the rupture through video thoracotomy was done smoothly. Extensive subcutaneous emphysema but without pneumothorax may be a warning sign of tracheobronchial injury after intubation. Early diagnosis and treatment of tracheal rupture is essential for quality of critical care.