A successful resuscitation of a young man with tracheo-innominate artery fistula
Abstract
Tracheo-innominate artery fistula is a rare but life-threatening complication of tracheostomy, even in chronic cases. A 22-year-old comatose man with a 2-year tracheostomy presented with sentinel bleeding followed by massive hemorrhage. Immediate measures included airway control, digital compression, and fluid resuscitation. Angiography confirmed a 3-mm fistula, and endovascular stenting achieved hemostasis. The patient was extubated on Day 5, with patent stent at 1-month follow-up but remained vegetative. Early recognition of sentinel bleeding and prompt endovascular intervention are critical for survival.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Tracheal and airway disorders
Vascular Anomalies and Treatments
Esophageal and GI Pathology
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Journal of Surgical Case Reports
- Publisher
- Oxford University Press (OUP)
- Volume
- 2026
- Issue
- 4
- Pages
- rjag269–rjag269
- Publication date
- 27 March 2026
- Language
- EN