An esophageal tumor producing life-threatening tracheal compression in a young adult was resuscitated with a self-inflating resuscitation bag

Abstract

Esophageal malignancy causing tracheal stenosis is commonly reported in the elderly population. Life-threatening tracheal stenosis by an esophageal mass at a young age, is a rare presentation. A 25-year-old female presented in the emergency room with complaints of difficulty in breathing and was in stridor. She was intubated with a 6 mm internal diameter endotracheal tube on the third attempt, and ventilation of the lung was only possible by the use of a self-inflating resuscitation bag. The blood gas report was suggestive of severe respiratory acidosis and emergency surgery was planned. During a thoracotomy, the lung was ventilated with the help of a self-inflating resuscitation bag under general anesthesia. With the relief of tracheal compression, lung compliance improved, and patient could be discharged from the intensive care unit after 7 days. Tracheal compression caused by esophageal mass is an emergency condition. Stent implantation or surgical removal of such tracheal obstructions can provide immediate relief and should be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team.