RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Uvular Necrosis as an Unusual Complication of Bronchoscopy Via the Nasal Approach
JF Respiratory Care
FD American Association for Respiratory Care
SP 695
OP 697
DO 10.4187/respcare.00936
VO 56
IS 5
A1 Lily Kristine F Sunio
A1 Tahmeed A Contractor
A1 Gina Chacon
YR 2011
UL http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/56/5/695.abstract
AB Bronchoscopy can cause post-procedural throat discomfort due to oropharyngeal irritation. We report a rare complication of bronchoscopy that resulted in similar symptoms. A 30-year-old man complained of severe throat discomfort a day after bronchoscopy. Examination revealed a swollen, elongated uvula. The lower half of the uvula was completely white, consistent with uvular necrosis. He was managed conservatively with topical lidocaine and antihistamines. At a follow-up examination 2 weeks later his symptoms had substantially improved and the necrosed uvula had separated, leaving a shortened uvula with an irregular border. Simple precautions taken during bronchoscopy can avoid this rare complication that causes persistent symptoms.