Tracheal mucosal flap: A rare cause of delayed onset postextubation stridor

Tracheal intubation is a commonly done procedure for myriad conditions, mainly in emergency rooms, operation theatres and ICUs. It is associated with several complications especially when performed under emergency conditions. Tracheal mucosal tear is a rare entity which is almost always undiagnosed. At times it leads to mucosal flap which is a cause of delayed onset respiratory distress following extubation. Misdiagnosis of this condition can prove fatal. One such case of tracheal mucosal flap is reported here highlighting the typical clinical features. A detailed study of the pathological process also follows. Awareness of this entity among the medical fraternity handling airway of critically ill patients is of utmost value.

Keywords: Postextubation stridor, Positional stridor, Pseudomembrane, Mucosal flap.