Tracheal obstruction due to nasal packing aspiration: a case report
Javier Domenech, Juan Manuel Perdomo, Albert Carramiñana, Edgar Mauricio López
Abstract
Airway obstruction caused by aspiration of nasal packings is an extremely rare but potentially fatal complication. Anesthesiologists must consider it in the differential diagnosis of patients with acute respiratory failure following nasal surgery. We report the case of a 46-year-old man who, during emergence from a routine septoplasty, suffered tracheal obstruction due to nasal packing dislocation. Various oxygenation techniques were attempted until a can’t intubate, can’t oxygenate situation developed, prompting emergency front-of-neck access and activation of the extracorporeal membrane oxygenation team. Resuscitation and oxygenation through the cricothyrotomy were successful, with no need for extracorporeal support. Proper fixation of nasal packings and avoiding nasal manipulation are essential to minimize risk. If aspiration occurs despite these precautions, the priority should be to maintain adequate oxygenation until the packing can be removed.
Keywords
References
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Submitted date:
08/22/2025
Accepted date:
02/13/2026
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