Tracheal Agenesis: A Case Report and Literature Review

Eduardo M. Diaz, James M. Adams, Hal K. Hawkins, Richard J.H. Smith

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

35 Scopus citations

Abstract

Tracheal agenesis (TA) is a rare congenital anomaly that is incompatible with prolonged life. It occurs in isolation or in association with other anomalies. The affected neonate presents with respiratory distress and is unable to produce an audible cry despite obvious physical effort. A difficult intubation ensues, and often only during a postmortem examination is the diagnosis of TA made. It is hoped that in addition to adding the 47th case of TA to the literature, this article will provide some insight into the pathogenesis, presentation, and management of this anomaly. It must be emphasized that as TA carries a fatal prognosis, great care must be taken in establishing the diagnosis. If the diagnosis is confirmed, complex reconstructive surgery is not recommended as it has not been shown to change the prognosis or clinical course of affected neonates.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)741-745
Number of pages5
JournalArchives of Otolaryngology--Head and Neck Surgery
Volume115
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 1989
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Surgery
  • Otorhinolaryngology

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