This case report describes the occurrence of a rapidly-developing pneumoretroperitoneum during coeliotomy in an anaesthetised cat. This was the first indication of a problem, however inadvertent endobronchial intubation initially, and accidental extubation, had occurred in the period immediately prior to surgery. The presence of the pneumoretroperitoneum alerted the clinicians to the likelihood of airway trauma, and mechanical ventilation was discontinued immediately. After completion of the coeliotomy, surgical exploration of the cervical trachea failed to detect an obvious tracheal tear. Subsequent chest radiographs confirmed the presence of pneumoretroperitoneum, pneumomediastinum, mild pneumothorax and subcutaneous emphysema in the cervical region. No further diagnostics were performed, thus the site of the tear could not be definitively diagnosed but was suspected to be distal to the thoracic inlet. The cat recovered uneventfully and was discharged three days later after conservative management. This report highlights the ability to rapidly recognise acute airway trauma by the presence of pneumoretroperitoneum, prompting immediate cessation of positive-pressure ventilation which, if continued, could have exacerbated the pneumothorax in this case.
scite is a Brooklyn-based organization that helps researchers better discover and understand research articles through Smart Citations–citations that display the context of the citation and describe whether the article provides supporting or contrasting evidence. scite is used by students and researchers from around the world and is funded in part by the National Science Foundation and the National Institute on Drug Abuse of the National Institutes of Health.